Arne Slot makes big Liverpool decision after UEFA approve Federico Chiesa Champions League squad request

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·29 September 2025

Arne Slot makes big Liverpool decision after UEFA approve Federico Chiesa Champions League squad request

Liverpool boss has sprung a surprise ahead of the Champions League showdown with Galatasaray

Arne Slot has not included Federico Chiesa in the Liverpool squad for the Champions League clash against Galatasaray.

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Chiesa, initially was left out of the Reds’ 22-man group for the league phase of Europe’s elite club competition earlier this month, with 17-year-old sensation Rio Ngumoha selected instead.

However, UEFA’s rule change for all their men’s club competitions this season allows for the temporary replacement of a player named in the squad who suffers a long-term injury or illness before matchday, allowed for Chiesa to be drafted in.

Fellow Italian Giovanni Leoni is set for an extended period on the sidelines because of an ACL injury sustained on his Liverpool debut in the Carabao Cup third round win over Southampton.

As a result, the Reds confirmed their request to replace Leoni with Chiesa was approved.

A statement read: ‘UEFA have approved a request to add the Italian to the Reds' 'List A', in line with a new regulation allowing a change in the event of a long-term absence.

‘Chiesa replaces Giovanni Leoni in the club's pool of eligible players for the league phase and will be available for the trip to Galatasaray next week.’

Left out: Federico Chiesa

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Although, despite being available for selection and coming off the bench to score for Liverpool against Crystal Palace at the weekend, Chiesa has not made the trip to Turkey.

It is understood that Chiesa is not dealing with an injury, so confirmation of why he has been left at home is expected to arrive later on Monday when Slot addresses the media.

Summer signing Alexander Isak is among the 21 players who have been named in the travelling squad along with Hugo Ekitike following his domestic suspension as the Reds look to bounce back from their first defeat of the season.