Liverpool’s Champions League Plans Disrupted as Arne Slot Explains Federico Chiesa Absence
Liverpool’s preparations for his or her essential Champions League conflict in opposition to Galatasaray have been overshadowed by the surprising absence of Federico Chiesa. The Italian ahead, who has change into a fan favorite since arriving at Anfield, was not included within the 21-man travelling squad for the tie in Istanbul. Arne Slot supplied a relaxed however detailed rationalization, aiming to reassure supporters that this setback is non permanent.
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Chiesa’s Omission Surprises Supporters
Chiesa’s title had been added to Liverpool’s Champions League checklist following Giovanni Leoni’s season-ending ACL damage. With that change within the squad, many anticipated Chiesa to be on the pitch in Turkey. His absence subsequently got here as a shock, notably as he was seen coaching on the AXA Coaching Centre on Monday morning forward of the group’s flight.
The 27-year-old winger has loved a constructive begin to the 2025-26 season below Slot. After a marketing campaign final yr hampered by health issues, he has already appeared in six of Liverpool’s eight matches, scoring twice from the bench and registering two assists in his solely begin. His sharpness in restricted minutes has prompted many supporters to name for a bigger position within the group’s attacking setup.
Photograph: IMAGO
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Slot’s Clarification Highlights Warning
Addressing the media on the eve of the match, Slot make clear the choice to depart Chiesa behind on Merseyside. The Liverpool supervisor said: “He acquired slightly niggle, I believe is the phrase you utilize in England, within the final recreation in opposition to Palace.
“He tried it in the present day [Monday] however he couldn’t end the (coaching) session, so we determined to not take him as a result of in just a few days it’s Chelsea.”
This assertion displays Slot’s pragmatic strategy since arriving at Anfield. Having guided Liverpool to the Premier League title in his debut season, he has demonstrated a willingness to rotate and defend key gamers to maintain efficiency throughout competitions.
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Monitoring Chiesa’s Health Key for Upcoming Fixtures
Liverpool’s medical group will preserve an in depth eye on Chiesa’s restoration forward of a demanding schedule that features a pivotal league match in opposition to Chelsea. His 153 minutes of motion thus far this season underline the necessity for cautious workload administration, particularly given his historical past of muscular setbacks.
Regardless of lacking the journey to Istanbul, Chiesa’s current performances recommend he might change into a decisive determine as Liverpool look to progress in Europe and defend their home crown. His dynamic play and eye for purpose have already boosted the squad’s depth in assault, one thing Slot will likely be desirous to protect for the lengthy marketing campaign forward.
Focus Shifts to Galatasaray Check
With Chiesa sidelined, Liverpool will journey with solely 21 gamers, which means they’ll title simply 10 substitutes for the Galatasaray encounter. Hugo Ekitike is ready to return after serving a suspension in opposition to Crystal Palace, which ought to supply an additional attacking possibility from the bench.
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Slot’s determination to relaxation Chiesa could show a sensible long-term name as Liverpool proceed to steadiness home ambitions with their European aspirations. For now, the emphasis will likely be on securing a constructive end in Istanbul whereas guaranteeing Chiesa’s swift return to motion for the high-profile conflict in opposition to Chelsea.