Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has confirmed that Federico Chiesa will not feature in Wednesday’s highly-anticipated Champions League showdown against Real Madrid at Anfield.
Arne Slot Confirms Federico Chiesa’s Absence for Liverpool’s Clash Against Real Madrid
While the Reds have been in scintillating form, the absence of the Italian forward adds to an already challenging list of injuries for Slot’s side.
Chiesa, who joined Liverpool in a high-profile summer move, has been sidelined since late September.
Fans were hopeful of his return after he resumed partial training last week, but Slot made it clear in his pre-match press conference that Chiesa is not yet ready for action.
“We also have a few injuries,” Slot said.
“Trent is in the squad but he will not be available to start. He can maybe play a few minutes, in an ideal world maybe he doesn’t, but if necessary he can.
“Federico is not in the squad yet, he’s training with us, not the whole session, but one or two parts of the session.
“Harvey Elliott is there but not ready to start, Alisson is not there yet, Diogo is not there yet. Kostas is having an injury as well, so it’s quite a list.”
Despite these setbacks, Slot exuded confidence in his team’s ability to face the reigning European champions.
With Real Madrid missing key players like Vinicius Junior, the Reds may see an opportunity to turn the tide against a club that has consistently troubled them in recent seasons.
In Chiesa’s absence, Slot will likely stick to his tried-and-tested attacking quartet, with Luis Díaz expected to play through the middle.
Diaz’s impressive performance in a similar role against Bayer Leverkusen has given Slot confidence in the Colombian’s adaptability.
While fans are eager to see Chiesa don the Liverpool shirt again, Slot emphasized the importance of patience. The 27-year-old’s recovery is being carefully managed to avoid further setbacks.
As Liverpool aim to extend their perfect Champions League record this season, the spotlight will be on the available players to deliver a memorable night at Anfield.
Though Chiesa’s absence is a blow, his return to full fitness in the near future could be a decisive boost as Liverpool chase glory on multiple fronts.
