Liverpool boss Arne Slot has shed light on Hugo Ekitike’s situation following his red card in midweek and provided a major update on Federico Chiesa’s return ahead of Saturday’s clash with Crystal Palace.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Slot was asked about Ekitike’s dismissal in the Carabao Cup against Southampton, where the French striker was sent off after celebrating a late winner by removing his shirt — while already on a yellow card.
Slot admitted he was frustrated in the immediate aftermath, calling the incident “needless and stupid,” but stressed that no further punishment would be handed out internally.
“Disciplined means I had a conversation with him, but if ‘disciplined’ implies a fine, we didn’t impose that,” Slot clarified.
“What he did wasn’t wise; he acknowledged that immediately and apologized to his teammates. Players of all ages can make mistakes, and at this club, you are permitted to err without facing immediate fines.”
Despite his absence this weekend, Slot praised Ekitike’s character, describing him as one of the “warmest” people at the club, and highlighted that his mistake fortunately didn’t cost Liverpool the game.
Chiesa Set for Return
The positive news for Liverpool is the return of Federico Chiesa, who impressed with two assists against Southampton earlier in the week. Slot confirmed the Italian winger will feature against Palace and revealed that he is also set to be registered in Liverpool’s Champions League squad.
That adjustment comes after young defender Giovanni Leoni was ruled out with a long-term knee injury, allowing a squad replacement under UEFA rules.
“We have considered including Chiesa in the Champions League squad,” Slot said. “When a player suffers an injury lasting more than two months, you are permitted to replace him. If I have been correctly informed, that’s the case here.”
Slot on Rio Ngumoha’s Development
Slot also addressed the progress of Rio Ngumoha, who signed his first professional contract on Thursday. The 17-year-old forward recently became Liverpool’s youngest ever goalscorer, finding the net at just 16 years and 361 days old.
“The good thing is that if you are a youngster playing at Liverpool, there are players around you who are still better,” Slot explained.
“That helps him stay grounded. But when you’re training with wingers like Gakpo, Salah, and Chiesa, you see that there’s still a lot of work to do. To reach their level, you need consistency — that’s what separates the very best.”
Liverpool face Crystal Palace at Anfield on Saturday, with Chiesa’s return set to soften the blow of Ekitike’s suspension as the Reds look to maintain their strong start under Arne Slot.
