Liverpool are set to take advantage of a special UEFA regulation just days before their Champions League showdown with Galatasaray.The Reds opened their European campaign with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Atletico Madrid, thanks to goals from Andy Robertson, Mohamed Salah, and skipper Virgil van Dijk. Now, as they gear up for their second group fixture on Tuesday, they may need to make a crucial squad adjustment.Earlier this season, UEFA introduced a new amendment allowing clubs to replace one outfield player who suffers a long-term injury or illness. This option remains available up until the sixth group stage match in December.Liverpool are expected to use this rule after the devastating injury to young defender Giovanni Leoni. The 18-year-old, who made his senior debut in the Carabao Cup against Southampton earlier this week, was stretchered off with a serious knee problem. Tests later confirmed an ACL tear, ruling him out for close to a year.Speaking to the press on Friday, manager Arne Slot admitted the club is exploring the possibility of registering Federico Chiesa in Leoni’s place:> “If the injury is long-term, there’s a chance to make a change. I’ve been told that’s the case, but it’s still being looked into.”Chiesa, notably, was the only senior Liverpool player omitted from the original 22-man Champions League squad. The decision came down to UEFA’s strict foreign player quota, which saw Slot prioritize teenage forward Rio Ngumoha instead.However, with Leoni sidelined, Liverpool could now hand Chiesa a lifeline in Europe. The Italian impressed heavily in the recent 2-1 Premier League win over Southampton, with fans already calling for him to start more regularly.If approved, his inclusion would provide a major boost for Slot as Liverpool aim to extend their perfect European start against Galatasaray.
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