1Liverpool boss Arne Slot has opened up about one of his toughest early decisions as manager — leaving Italian forward Federico Chiesa out of the club’s Champions League squad. Speaking to reporters, Slot confirmed that Chiesa was disappointed with the decision but responded with professionalism and commitment to the team’s wider goals.
Chiesa’s Reaction
Slot explained that the decision was not easy for anyone involved, especially given Chiesa’s pedigree as a Champions League performer.
“Of course it was tough for a manager, it is difficult for him. Of course he wasn’t happy with that decision but he understood the argument,” Slot admitted.
While the omission hurt the player, Slot emphasized that Chiesa gave exactly the kind of response a manager hopes for in such circumstances:
“He gave the answer you want to hear from a player and he will be there to help in the other cups and the league.”
This statement reveals not only Chiesa’s disappointment but also his professionalism — a willingness to accept the setback and channel his energy into other competitions.
Why Leave Chiesa Out?
The decision has raised eyebrows among Liverpool fans, many of whom see Chiesa as one of the club’s most exciting attacking options. His direct style, creativity, and experience on the European stage make him a player many expected to be crucial in Liverpool’s Champions League campaign.
However, Champions League squad limits are notoriously strict, particularly with foreign player quotas and homegrown rules creating difficult trade-offs. Slot and his recruitment team likely weighed squad balance, positional depth, and fitness concerns before making the call.
Chiesa’s injury record in recent years may also have played a role, as Liverpool prioritize keeping him fit for the long domestic season while relying on other forwards for European duties.
The Challenge of Managing Big Names
Slot’s handling of the situation highlights one of the biggest challenges for any top manager: keeping world-class players satisfied even when they are not in the spotlight. Liverpool’s squad has grown in depth after a busy summer, with signings such as Alexander Isak and Federico Chiesa competing for attacking roles alongside Mohamed Salah, Darwin Núñez, Luis Díaz, and Diogo Jota.
Leaving Chiesa out shows just how competitive the squad has become. It also underlines Slot’s willingness to make ruthless decisions in the interests of squad balance — a quality essential for managing a club with Liverpool’s ambitions.
Fan Reactions
Unsurprisingly, the news has sparked mixed reactions among Liverpool supporters. Some are baffled at the decision, arguing that leaving out a player of Chiesa’s caliber is a mistake:
- “We signed him for Champions League nights like this — not for the Carabao Cup,” one fan complained.
- Another wrote, “Slot is brave, but this one could backfire.”
Others, however, see Slot’s approach as pragmatic and forward-thinking:
- “If he’s saving Chiesa for the league, it makes sense. We can’t risk him breaking down again.”
- “Squad depth is the reason we signed him — not everyone can play every competition.”
Looking Ahead
For Chiesa, this could be an opportunity in disguise. By focusing on domestic competitions, he can establish himself as a consistent performer in the Premier League while proving his fitness and reliability. His hunger to make an impact may also drive him to deliver standout performances whenever he takes the pitch.
For Slot, this is an early test of his man-management skills. Keeping Chiesa motivated and involved will be crucial, especially if injuries or suspensions later open the door for his inclusion in the Champions League squad.
Conclusion
Leaving Federico Chiesa out of the Champions League squad was always going to be controversial, but Arne Slot has faced the issue head-on. By acknowledging Chiesa’s disappointment while praising his professionalism, Slot has set the tone for how he intends to manage difficult squad decisions.
