Federico Chiesa could now be included in Liverpool's Champions League squad
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(Credit:Imago)
Aasif Rahman
Wed 24 September 2025 14:15, UK
Liverpool winger Federico Chiesa may be given another opportunity soon enough after the latest update following their Carabao Cup tie.
Chiesa was given a start on the right flank for the Reds as Arne Slot’s side beat Southampton 2-1 in the League Cup.
He played a decisive role in the match, as he assisted Hugo Ekitike, who was sent off after his goal as he celebrated by taking his shirt off and was given a second yellow card.
However, the night also saw a moment of worry for Giovanni Leoni, who was forced off with injury in the second half.
If the defender is out for a significant period, it could open up further opportunities for Chiesa to feature more regularly in the Champions League.
Chiesa has made just one start this season.
(Credit Imago)
According to James Pearce of The Athletic, Chiesa could replace Leoni in Liverpool’s Champions League squad if his injury is “significant”.
UEFA rules allow a player to be replaced in the squad if another is out for more than 60 days, provided no other outfield changes have been made during that period.
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Chiesa missed out on the initial Champions League squad with the likes of Rio Ngumoha chosen ahead of the Italian winger.
His limited role in the squad has led to speculation about his future at Anfield, with Football Insider reporting that Chiesa could leave Liverpool amid the attacking signings at the club this summer.
Federico Chiesa in all comps at LiverpoolStatsAppearances19Goals3Assists4Federico Chiesa at Liverpool.
It is understood that Chiesa will be the player trusted by Slot when Mohamed Salah leaves for the Africa Cup of Nations in January, but with the World Cup next summer, an early exit cannot be ruled out.
If the former Juventus winger is chosen to take Leoni’s spot in the Champions League squad, he must prove that he still has a future at Anfield whenever called upon.
He has demonstrated that already this term, when Chiesa scored late on against Bournemouth on the opening day, and selflessly assisting Ekitike in the Carabao Cup win over Southampton.
While Salah and Cody Gakpo may be the starters, the winger’s experience in the Champions League could prove vital and show that he can be trusted in the squad.