Liverpool’s strong resurgence continued at Anfield this week as they claimed a deserved win over Real Madrid in front of a packed home crowd. It was a statement performance from Arne Slot’s side, who looked sharp, organized, and full of belief once again.
Real Madrid’s world-class goalkeeper, Thibaut Courtois, was kept busy throughout the game, forced into eight saves as Liverpool pressed relentlessly from start to finish.
On the other end, Giorgi Mamardashvili, standing in goal for Madrid, denied Liverpool only twice, a sign of how dominant the Reds were across the ninety minutes.
For Liverpool, it was another positive result that builds on their recent return to form. After enduring a worrying slump that saw them lose six of seven matches, they’ve now produced back-to-back victories against Aston Villa and Real Madrid at home without conceding a single goal.
The turnaround has been impressive, suggesting that Slot’s tactical adjustments and belief in his squad are beginning to pay off.
However, their progress has come without one of the Premier League’s most expensive signings former Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak.
The Swedish international joined Liverpool for a staggering £130 million on deadline day, making him the club’s record signing. Yet, despite the excitement surrounding his arrival, Isak’s impact has been limited so far.
He’s managed just one goal a Carabao Cup strike across eight appearances in all competitions. Adding to his frustration, Isak has missed the last four games due to a groin injury.
In his absence, Hugo Ekitike, another summer recruit, has stepped up to lead the line. The young French forward has impressed with his work rate and movement, offering energy and link-up play that fits seamlessly into Slot’s attacking system.
While Isak continues his recovery, Ekitike’s performances have earned him valuable trust from the manager and fans alike, showing Liverpool’s depth in attacking options.
Meanwhile, back on Tyneside, Newcastle supporters noticed something interesting this week one of their young players was spotted at Anfield during Liverpool’s midweek clash.
Vakhtang Salia, the teenage Georgian forward who joined Newcastle from Dinamo Tbilisi in the final days of the summer window, was seen among the spectators at the game. Salia, who has yet to make his debut for Newcastle due to injury, was invited behind the scenes after the final whistle.
The reason for his visit soon became clear. Salia shares the same agency as Liverpool’s Georgian goalkeeper, Giorgi Mamardashvili.
Both players are represented by agent Levan Seturidze, who was also present at Anfield that night. The two young Georgians were seen posing for pictures with their agent following the game a moment that quickly circulated online and caught the attention of fans from both clubs.
Salia’s move to Newcastle was one of the more low-key transfers of the summer, but it carried a sense of intrigue. Before his 18th birthday, the promising forward had already made 59 senior appearances for Dinamo Tbilisi, scoring eight goals and earning a reputation as one of Georgia’s brightest young talents.
Newcastle moved swiftly to secure his signature, seeing long-term potential in the teenager’s raw ability and physical style of play.
Unfortunately, his progress has been halted by a hamstring injury that has kept him sidelined since joining. Though he has attended matches at St James’ Park and shown enthusiasm for the club’s journey, fans are still waiting to see him pull on the black-and-white shirt competitively.
His recent appearance at Anfield was simply a show of support for a fellow countryman rather than any transfer-related matter.
Salia’s time on the sidelines hasn’t been easy. The young striker recently posted a cryptic message on Instagram that seemed to reflect his current struggles.
The post featured a scene from Game of Thrones showing Jon Snow on his knees during a fierce battle, accompanied by the caption, “Every flight begins with a fall.” It was a poetic statement one that symbolized Salia’s belief that setbacks are just part of the journey toward success.
That message resonated with Newcastle fans who understand the challenges of adapting to life in English football, especially for young foreign players.
Eddie Howe’s side has built a reputation for nurturing talent patiently, giving new arrivals time to adjust and grow within a supportive environment.
The hope is that once Salia overcomes his injury and regains full fitness, he can begin to show why Newcastle were so keen to bring him to the club.
For now, the teenager remains focused on his recovery and development, watching closely as his new teammates continue their European campaign.
His visit to Anfield wasn’t about football politics or transfer rumors it was a reminder of his connections, his roots, and the ambition that drove him to make the move to England.
With time, hard work, and a bit of luck, Vakhtang Salia could soon turn that early fall into a soaring flight in black and white stripes.
