New Chiesa problem explained by Slot, out of Galatasaray vs. Liverpool R16

Italy international Federico Chiesa is not part of the Liverpool squad for the Champions League clash with Galatsaray, as Arne Slot explains his latest setback.

The first leg of the Round of 16 tie is going to be in Istanbul on Tuesday.

It is not a full squad making the trip as ex-Roma goalkeeper Alisson Becker and Italy’s Chiesa were left behind in Liverpool.

Chiesa struggling for playing time at Liverpool

“Federico was also not in the session, he felt unwell last night, so that’s why he wasn’t training with us today and not travelling with us,” explained coach Slot in his pre-match press conference.

As for Alisson, the shot-stopper felt a twinge towards the end of the training session and the medical staff decided it was better he stay home for this match.

Chiesa’s injury record has stalled his career badly and the last thing he needed was to add to the number of missed games with illness too.

The 28-year-old could be recalled by Gennaro Gattuso when Italy play the 2026 World Cup play-offs later this month.

He has made 29 competitive appearances for Liverpool so far this season, contributing three goals and three assists.

However, Chiesa was only in the starting XI for five of those fixtures.