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Liverpool Star Left Out of Squad to Face Galatasaray in Shock Arne Slot Decision

Liverpool’s preparations for their Champions League clash with Galatasaray took an unexpected twist when Federico Chiesa was left out of the 21-man squad for the trip to Istanbul. The Italian international had only just been added to the European roster following Giovanni Leoni’s season-ending ACL injury, which made his absence all the more striking.

Slot is expected to explain the decision during his pre-match press conference scheduled for 7pm UK time. Supporters will be keen to understand why one of the club’s most high-profile summer signings is not part of this crucial away tie.

Tactical reshuffle under Arne Slot

Liverpool enter the contest on the back of a frustrating 2-1 defeat to Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park, a result that prompted questions about the 4-2-2-2 system deployed in the first half. Slot is widely tipped to abandon that formation against Galatasaray, favouring a more balanced approach in midfield and attack.

There will also be scrutiny on Florian Wirtz, who endured another subdued display at the weekend. Despite criticism from some quarters, the 22-year-old is expected to retain his central attacking role. Slot’s willingness to keep faith in Wirtz suggests he wants continuity in key positions even as other changes loom.

Selection battles across the pitch

Liverpool’s defensive choices remain under the microscope. Dominik Szoboszlai could fill in at right-back ahead of Conor Bradley, while Andy Robertson may reclaim his left-back slot from Milos Kerkez. In midfield, Alexis Mac Allister is likely to start on the bench as he continues his recovery, opening the door for Curtis Jones to return to the starting eleven.

Hugo Ekitike is in line to lead the line after serving a one-match suspension, while Alexander Isak, still building his fitness, could feature from the bench. Cody Gakpo, having been among the substitutes against Palace, is also tipped to return to the starting side.

With numbers reduced, Liverpool are set to include two goalkeepers on the bench, Giorgi Mamardashvili and Freddie Woodman, highlighting the lack of depth in outfield options.

Spotlight on Liverpool’s European ambitions

For Slot, this encounter is another chance to stamp his authority after guiding Liverpool to the Premier League title in his debut season. His European campaign, however, has so far been less convincing. The absence of Chiesa removes a valuable attacking option who was signed to add flair and experience on the continental stage.

Youngster Trey Nyoni trained with the senior squad at the AXA Training Centre but will instead feature for the U19s in their UEFA Youth League match against Galatasaray.

As the spotlight intensifies on the manager’s selection and tactical calls, Liverpool supporters will be watching closely to see how the team responds in Istanbul without the spark of Chiesa. The decision to omit the Italian winger adds intrigue to a fixture already rich in narrative, given Liverpool’s ambitions to progress deep into the Champions League under their new boss.