Mamardashvili's glowing Valencia verdict convinced Elliott to seal loan switch

Harvey Elliott has credited Liverpool teammate Giorgi Mamardashvili with convincing him to join Valencia on loan, completing the switch to the Spanish club late in the summer transfer window after falling down the pecking order under Reds head coach Andoni Iraola.

Speaking at his unveiling at the Mestalla, Elliott revealed that conversations with Mamardashvili — who made 134 appearances for Valencia before joining Liverpool — were central to his decision. “Giorgi told me the fans are incredible,” Elliott said. “When things aren’t going well, they support you and are with you until the end. And when you win and play well, they’re the best fans you could have. He also told me the city is amazing. We talked a little, although I didn’t want to ask too many questions so as not to give away what was going on. But Giorgi spoke very highly of the city and, above all, of the club. I’m very excited and eager to experience it for myself.”

Valencia manager Carlos Corberan also played a significant part in sealing the deal. “I had a few calls with Carlos Corberan, in which we talked about my objectives and what he expected of me as a player,” Elliott added. “The start of the season has been tricky, but there’s still a long way to go.”

The loan deal carries no option for a permanent transfer, with Elliott contracted to Liverpool until 2028. The 21-year-old arrives having endured a difficult spell at Aston Villa last season, where he managed just nine appearances and one goal before Villa chose not to pursue a permanent signing.

Elliott, who joined Liverpool on a free transfer from Fulham in 2019 and has since made 149 appearances for the club, scoring 15 goals, is focused on rebuilding his confidence in Spain. “My goal is to regain my self-confidence, play freely and enjoy my football,” he said. “I’m very grateful for the opportunity Valencia CF have given me.”

Valencia are in need of a spark after picking up just one point from their opening three La Liga fixtures, with a home clash against Barcelona on the horizon.