Liverpool make huge omission from Champions League squad as 17-year-old Rio Ngumoha is included

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Liverpool have confirmed their 22-man squad for the opening stage of the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League campaign. Notably, Italy international Federico Chiesa has been omitted from the list, highlighting his difficult start at Anfield this season due to injuries and limited playing time.

The confirmed squad includes key players such as goalkeepers Alisson Becker, Giorgi Mamardashvili, and Freddie Woodman. Defenders named are Joe Gomez, Wataru Endo, Virgil van Dijk, and others, while the midfield and forward lineup features prominent contributors like Cody Gakpo.

Chiesa, who made just 14 appearances last season scoring two goals and providing two assists, had hoped to secure more opportunities under manager Arne Slot. However, his exclusion from the Champions League squad signals that breaking into the starting XI will be even more challenging this season. Despite interest from other clubs, including those in Serie A, Chiesa chose to stay at Liverpool but has seen little game time in the Premier League, only 29 minutes across three appearances so far, scoring once.

The decision also comes shortly after Chiesa declined a call-up to the newly appointed Italy national coach Gennaro Gattuso's initial squad, citing not being fully fit. Liverpool's 22-man Champions League list reflects their current strategy for the European competition's initial phase and the squad depth they intend to rely upon.

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