Liverpool have made a surprising decision ahead of their Champions League campaign after Federico Chiesa and Wataru Endo were omitted from the club’s 25-man squad for the league phase.
The decision is likely to generate plenty of discussion among supporters, particularly because both players remain experienced members of the Liverpool squad.
Manager Andoni Iraola has instead chosen to include several younger players and players recovering from injuries as Liverpool prepare for another demanding European campaign.
Hugo Ekitike, Conor Bradley and Giovanni Leoni have all been included, despite concerns surrounding their fitness and availability. Liverpool clearly appear to be planning beyond the opening weeks of the competition and hoping their injured players can return in time to contribute later in the campaign.
The selection was also influenced by UEFA registration rules, which require clubs to meet specific homegrown-player requirements.
For Chiesa, the omission represents another setback after struggling to establish himself as a regular starter since joining Liverpool. Endo’s absence is equally significant given his experience and ability to provide defensive protection in midfield.
Liverpool now face the challenge of balancing their Premier League and European commitments with a squad that has already attracted plenty of attention.
The Champions League decision could prove to be one of Iraola’s most debated choices this season.