Liverpool have confirmed their 22-man Champions League squad for the group stage, with the headline omission being senior forward Federico Chiesa. The Italian international misses out due to UEFA’s restriction of 17 non-homegrown players per team.
Manager Arne Slot admitted it was one of the most difficult choices he has had to make since arriving at Anfield. Speaking ahead of the weekend fixture, he said:
“As a coach, leaving a player out is always hard. It’s tough enough telling someone they won’t start, but excluding them from the squad altogether is even more difficult. I explained my reasoning to him; while he wasn’t happy, I think he understood.”
Chiesa had featured in all three of Liverpool’s league games this season, even scoring in the opening-day victory over Bournemouth. However, the arrival of new signings such as Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak increased competition for attacking spots, ultimately pushing him out of the European squad.
Slot added that Chiesa reacted in a professional manner, pledging his commitment to contribute in the Premier League and domestic cup competitions, and showing determination to prove himself on the training ground.
For now, the forward will focus fully on domestic duties until at least February. He has also turned down an international call-up, signaling his intent to stay sharp and ready for Liverpool. While his absence from Europe is a setback, it could serve as extra motivation to force his way back into consideration for the Champions League knockout rounds.
