Liverpool Champions League snub leaves two stars facing uncertain futures

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Liverpool have confirmed their squad for the league phase of the Champions League, with Federico Chiesa and Wataru Endo among the notable absentees.Both players have been left out of the 25-man group, in a decision that could raise further questions over their respective positions within the squad.Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty ImagesChiesa left facing uncertain Liverpool futureChiesa has already missed Liverpool’s opening two Premier League matches due to a muscle problem and will now have to watch the Champions League campaign from outside the squad.The Italian’s omission is particularly significant following the changes Liverpool have made to their attacking options during the summer.James Pearce of The Athletic reports that Chiesa “finds himself down the pecking order following the summer signings of wingers Bradley Barcola and Victor Munoz.”Liverpool’s recruitment has increased competition across the attacking positions, with Barcola and Munoz providing further options. Cody Gakpo remains at the club, while Alexander Isak has also added to the team’s attacking firepower.As a result, Chiesa appears to have been affected by Liverpool’s reshaping of their attack.Endo’s absence from the Champions League squad could be equally significant, particularly given the midfielder’s previous importance to Liverpool.The experienced midfielder was an unused substitute against both Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest, while 22-year-old James McConnell has been preferred for the European squad.That decision could offer an indication of where Endo currently stands in the squad.The midfielder has previously provided Liverpool with experience and discipline, while also showing a willingness to perform whatever role was required of him.However, his Champions League omission alongside McConnell’s inclusion suggests a shift in the pecking order.For Endo, it leaves his future looking uncertain, while McConnell now has a potentially significant opportunity to establish himself.With both Chiesa and Endo missing from Liverpool’s Champions League squad, the decision provides a clear indication of how their positions have changed within the team.Join Our NewsletterReceive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox