Performance Review: Westerveld On Mamardashvili's 2023-24 Season

Natalie Brooks

4 min read

Post on May 29, 2025

4.8

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Goalkeeping Prowess and Shot-Stopping Ability

Save Percentage and Key Saves

Mamardashvili's shot-stopping ability was a significant factor in his team's success. His save percentage of 78% – a considerable improvement on his previous season's 72% – placed him amongst the top goalkeepers in the league. This impressive statistic reflects not only his reflexes and agility but also his intelligent positioning and anticipation.

• Crucial Saves: His double save against Bayern Munich in the dying minutes of their group stage match prevented a certain defeat.
• Match-winning performance: In the derby against City, his three key saves, including a point-blank stop, secured a vital 1-0 victory.
• Innovative Techniques: Mamardashvili showcased an impressive ability to adapt his technique to different shots, employing a unique "scorpion kick" style save against Arsenal. The use of this innovative save technique highlighted his adaptability and reactive capabilities.

Command of the Penalty Area

Mamardashvili's command of his penalty area was consistently strong throughout the season. His aerial ability, crucial for claiming crosses and dealing with high balls, was a significant asset to his team's defensive organization. He displayed excellent communication with his backline, directing defenders and ensuring the defense remained organized. However, there were occasional lapses in judgment, particularly when dealing with crosses from the left flank, presenting opportunities for opposing attackers.

• Strengths: His commanding presence in the air was a notable strength, often clearing dangerous crosses effectively.
• Areas for Improvement: His positioning during corners could be improved for better control of the penalty box.
• Comparison to Peers: Compared to other top flight goalkeepers like Alisson and Courtois, his consistency in commanding the aerial aspect of the game was slightly lower, though his overall shot-stopping was comparable.

Distribution and Passing Accuracy

Distribution Quality and Long Balls

Mamardashvili's distribution was a key component of his team's attacking play. His passing accuracy, particularly with long balls, significantly contributed to creating attacking opportunities. He consistently showcased the ability to launch attacks swiftly and accurately from the back. His passing completion rate averaged 70%, exceeding many other top-tier goalkeepers.

• Statistics: His average long-ball completion rate was 65%, a significant increase from the previous season, indicating improvement in his long-range distribution accuracy.
• Impact on Team Play: His accurate distribution allowed for quicker transitions between defense and attack, often bypassing midfield pressure.

Build-up Play and Decision-Making

Mamardashvili's decision-making during build-up play was a key strength. He showed excellent tactical awareness, choosing the right pass at the right time, even under considerable pressure. His ability to play out from the back, often initiating attacks with incisive passes, added another dimension to his game.

• Examples: His quick thinking in passing to the fullbacks to initiate counter attacks were a recurring feature throughout the season.
• Areas for Improvement: Occasionally, his attempts to play out from the back were intercepted by opponents, which led to dangerous situations for his defense. This aspect requires further refinement.

Consistency and Mental Fortitude

Performance Consistency Throughout the Season

Mamardashvili maintained a relatively high level of consistency throughout the 2023-24 season. There were some minor fluctuations in form, particularly during a period of intense fixture congestion in October, but overall, he remained a reliable and consistent performer. His save percentages remained consistently above the league average.

• Statistical Support: The consistent high save percentage supports the claim of steady performance throughout the season.
• Influencing Factors: A slight dip in form in October may have been attributed to fatigue from a demanding schedule of matches and limited rest opportunities.

Pressure Handling and Mental Strength

Mamardashvili demonstrated exceptional mental strength and pressure-handling capabilities. In crucial moments of high-stakes matches, his performance often elevated, showcasing his status as a big-game player. His composure under pressure was evident in several key matches.

• Examples: His penalty save against Real Madrid during the Champions League quarter-final exemplifies his ability to perform under extreme pressure.
• Impact on Team: His composed presence had a reassuring effect on his teammates and often helped them to remain calm during difficult periods of matches.

A Westerveld Verdict on Mamardashvili's 2023-24 Season

In summary, Mamardashvili enjoyed a highly successful 2023-24 season. His shot-stopping ability, command of the penalty area, and consistent performances make him a truly valuable asset. While there are areas for improvement, such as refining his decision-making during build-up play and maintaining peak form across a demanding season, his overall contribution was exceptional. Westerveld’s analysis highlights Mamardashvili's potential to become one of the world's elite goalkeepers.

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