Liverpool Omits Chiesa from Champions League Squad, Ngumoha Included

Federico Chiesa has faced a challenging start to his Liverpool career since joining from Juventus in 2024, struggling for playing time and being left out of Liverpool's 22-man Champions League squad in favor of 17-year-old Rio Ngumoha. Despite interest from clubs in Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Serie A teams like Inter and Napoli, Chiesa has decided to remain at Liverpool to fight for his place, motivated by his contract security and aspirations to return to Italy's national team ahead of the World Cup. Liverpool manager Arne Slot acknowledged the difficulty of the decision to exclude Chiesa but praised his recent improved performances and fitness, noting the increased competition following significant summer signings Hugo Ekitiké and Alexander Isak. Ngumoha's meteoric rise, including a dramatic late winner against Newcastle, has added to the competition in Liverpool's forward line, which has undergone major changes after the departures of key players like Diogo Jota, Luis Diaz, and Darwin Nunez. Chiesa's commitment to stay and prove himself despite setbacks has been respected, though his situation remains precarious as he seeks more consistent playing time to revive his career and international prospects. The possibility remains for Chiesa to be added back to the Champions League squad in the spring transfer window, keeping his hopes alive for a breakthrough this season.