Liverpool have officially submitted their Champions League squad — and one name immediately raised eyebrows. Federico Chiesa, one of the club’s senior attacking stars, has been left out of the 22-man list for the group stages.
With UEFA rules limiting clubs to a maximum of 17 non-homegrown players, Arne Slot was forced to make a brutal decision — and unfortunately, the Italian winger didn’t make the cut.
Speaking ahead of the Burnley clash, Slot admitted it was one of the hardest calls he has faced since stepping into the Anfield hot seat:
👉 “Leaving a player out of a squad is far more difficult than leaving him out of a lineup,” the Dutch manager revealed. “I explained the situation to him. Of course, he wasn’t happy, but he understood my reasons.”
Chiesa, 27, has already featured in all three of Liverpool’s Premier League games this season, even netting in the opening day win over Bournemouth. But with new signings like Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak boosting the attacking options, competition for places was always going to be fierce.
Still, Slot praised Chiesa’s response to the setback:
👉 “He told me exactly what you want to hear from a player — that he’ll give everything for the team in the league and cup competitions. And he’s shown that with his work rate.”
What This Means for Chiesa’s Role 🚨
For now, Chiesa will shift his focus to the Premier League and domestic cups until at least February, when squad changes for the knockout rounds can be made.
Interestingly, the Italian recently turned down a national team call-up, a sign that he’s determined to fully prove himself at Liverpool. With the Reds fighting on multiple fronts, his role could still become crucial as rotation sets in later this season.
UEFA’s restrictions forced Slot into a difficult sacrifice, but this could light a fire under Chiesa to deliver standout performances in England and push his way back into the European squad after Christmas.
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