Federico Chiesa and Wataru Endo Excluded from Liverpool's Champions League Squad by Andoni Iraola
Federico Chiesa and Wataru Endo have been excluded from Liverpool's squad for the upcoming Champions League group stage. Manager Andoni Iraola made the decision to leave out the Italian winger and Japanese midfielder when naming the European roster, dealing a setback to both players as the club prepares for the demanding continental competition.
Chiesa Faces Another European Setback
This is not the first time Chiesa has missed out on Europe's premier club tournament with Liverpool. Last season, he was similarly left off the Champions League list and only got a chance later due to an injury to teammate Giovanni Leoni. Since his £10m move to the club, the former Juventus player has struggled to secure regular minutes in the competition, despite making his debut off the bench during a Champions League match in Italy in September 2024.
Squad Depth and Tactical Decisions Shape Selection
The choice to exclude these two highlights the tough decisions facing Iraola amid a reshaped squad competing on multiple fronts. Balancing registration limits and maintaining team chemistry means some players miss out, even if they are capable. Alongside Chiesa, Endo also misses the Champions League campaign, forcing the coaching staff to rely on other squad members to handle the European challenges ahead.
Domestic Focus for Chiesa
With the Champions League temporarily off the table, Chiesa will now concentrate fully on domestic competitions, aiming to impress in training and league matches. Liverpool faces a busy schedule, including a notable European fixture against Inter Milan on January 19. Should injuries or changes arise, there's a chance the Italian forward could re-enter the Champions League squad later this season.
- Team: Liverpool
- Players omitted: Federico Chiesa, Wataru Endo
- Manager: Andoni Iraola
- Chiesa transfer fee: £10m
- Notable upcoming match: Liverpool vs Inter Milan, January 19
