Iraola has finalized his decisions ahead of Liverpool's Carabao Cup Round 3 clash with Spurs.
On 14 September 2026, Andoni Iraola, Liverpool's head coach, revealed the latest preparations ahead of the 2026-27 Carabao Cup (League Cup) Round 3 match, where Liverpool will host Premier League rivals Spurs on Tuesday, 15 September.
Liverpool's start to the season has not met fans' expectations. Although unbeaten in five matches across all competitions, they have drawn three of their first four Premier League games, earning six points and sitting seventh in the standings.
However, Iraola disclosed he will rotate players for the Carabao Cup Round 3 game against Spurs, who are currently in a worse situation. Spurs spent over £300 million this summer but remain winless and goalless after four Premier League matches, accumulating only two points and falling to 17th place.
The Liverpool coach confirmed that second-choice goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili will start in place of Alisson Becker, with several other positions also rotated. "I am very satisfied with the squad I have. I highly value my players," he said.
"If we win, the team will look impressive and outstanding. If not, there will be questions about the squad depth. It depends on how people see it."
"I expect to see some players tomorrow who have never played before. I look forward to watching them perform. I believe they will do well and help the team, even though they haven't had opportunities to play yet."
"You could field the same players every match, but the problem is they will eventually become very tired and risk injuries."
"However, this approach does not apply equally to everyone. Some players can play every three days without issues. They have strong physiques and their performance does not drop significantly."
"(Will you change the goalkeeper for the match against Spurs?) Yes, I have no doubts about Alisson. He has performed excellently. As for Giorgi Mamardashvili, I highly admire his skills."
"I've known him since my time in Spain. When I was managing Bournemouth, we tried to sign him. For me, he is a very good goalkeeper, and he will start tomorrow."
"It's not about league standings because this is a different competition. Of course, if you ask honestly, everyone prefers winning in the Champions League or Premier League more."
"But there's no guarantee that rotating players or resting key players will always secure the next win. We want to win and show good performances. That's what we will try to achieve tomorrow."
