Arne Slot admitted that Federico Chiesa was left disappointed by his omission from Liverpool's Champions League squad, but the Italian has responded to his manager in training
Federico Chiesa of Liverpool during a training session at AXA Training Centre on September 12, 2025 in Kirkby, England
Federico Chiesa won't play a part in Liverpool's Champions League league phase after being left out of the squad by Arne Slot
Federico Chiesa demonstrated how he's the ultimate professional during training after being left out of Liverpool's Champions League squad. The 27-year-old has played a bit-part role at the Premier League side since signing for the club last summer, with just 17 appearances to his name since.
Despite his lack of action, the Italian is much-loved by the club's fanbase and enjoyed his biggest moment in a Reds shirt in the opening game of the season, scoring the winner in Liverpool's 4-2 win over Bournemouth.
While he's featured in every league game so far this season, Chiesa won't get to enjoy the European nights at Anfield as an active player after he was left out of the 23-man squad for the league phase.
It's a bitter blow for a player who looked to have turned a corner from last season, with Slot opting to select 17-year-old Rio Ngumoha in his place. With 16 Champions League appearances to his name, including three with Liverpool, Chiesa is certainly within his rights to feel aggrieved, but that hasn't stopped him from putting in the work to be able to contribute at any given time, according to Slot.
Speaking ahead of their trip to Burnley on Sunday, the Liverpool boss admitted it was a tough decision to omit Chiesa but paid tribute to the forward for his attitude. "Of course, that is one of the most difficult things you have to do as a manager," he said.
"For a player not to play, it is not always easy to tell them but not to be in the squad is always more difficult. "I just explained to him why we made this choice. Of course, he wasn’t happy with that.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - AUGUST 15: Arne Slot manager / head coach of Liverpool hugs Federico Chiesa of Liverpool at full time during the Premier League match between Liverpool and Bournemouth at Anfield on August 15, 2025 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images)
Arne Slot has commended Federico Chiesa's work ethic on multiple occasions
"I think he understood my arguments - that is not to say he agreed with them. He didn't tell me, by the way, that he didn't agree with them! But he gave me the answer you want to hear from a player, that he will be there to help the team in the cups and in the league.
"That's one thing to say, but I think he also showed this because he wasn't selected, but he worked really hard these days to be ready for the upcoming days. That is even more important than what a player tells you."
Chiesa's determination and work ethic was on display during Liverpool's latest Inside Training video, as he was put through his paces with medicine ball exercises and on-field drills.
Liverpool's Italian striker #14 Federico Chiesa celebrates after scoring their third goal during the English Premier League football match between Liverpool and Bournemouth
Chiesa has made just 17 appearances for Liverpool since signing
Liverpool fans noted his professionalism in the comments section, with one user writing: "I just love Chiesa's attitude and his work rate, of course," while another added, "Chiesa, I've got a soft spot for that guy. I love his attitude."
A third called the Italian a "perfect example" as they commented: "I hope that Chiesa gets more game time than he did last season. His attitude and passion and love for being a Liverpool player is outstanding. He is a perfect example of what every club needs."
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.