Liverpool boss Arne Slot has clarified why Federico Chiesa was left out of the squad traveling to Istanbul for their Champions League clash against Galatasaray.
The Reds are set for their second group-stage encounter on Tuesday, but Chiesa will play no part after failing to complete the final training session.
Slot revealed that the Italian forward picked up a minor problem during Liverpool’s weekend defeat to Crystal Palace. Although Chiesa managed to score in that game, the knock prevented him from finishing training on Monday, leading to the decision to leave him behind.
“He felt something from the Palace game,” Slot explained. “He tried to push through in training, but he couldn’t finish. With Chelsea coming up, we didn’t want to risk him.”
Chiesa’s absence initially raised eyebrows since UEFA had only recently cleared him for inclusion in the competition, following Giovanni Leoni’s long-term injury. Under the updated rules, clubs are permitted to replace one player sidelined for at least 60 days before matchweek six, and Liverpool successfully registered Chiesa.
The 27-year-old endured a frustrating 2024/25 season due to injury setbacks, featuring just six times in the league. However, he has already equaled that tally this term, contributing two goals. Liverpool now hope he will be fully fit for Saturday’s Premier League showdown with Chelse
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