Federico Chiesa has made an encouraging start to the season, but has suffered disappointment after being omitted from the Reds' Champions League squad
Federico Chiesa playing for Liverpool
Federico Chiesa has been left out of Liverpool's Champions League squad
(Image: George Wood/Getty Images)
Federico Chiesa has already had a rollercoaster second season at Liverpool. The Italian winger scored a crucial late goal against Bournemouth in the Reds' first match, but has since been omitted from the club's Champions League squad.
Chiesa, who only played 14 times last season, seemed to be finding his stride when he put Liverpool back in front against Bournemouth in the 88th minute, scoring his first league goal for the club. He has come off the bench in all four of the team's matches so far, but won't feature in Liverpool's Champions League campaign, which starts at home against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday.
The 27-year-old was left out of the Reds' squad as youngster Rio Ngumoha was chosen over the Italy international. Liverpool manager Arne Slot has since spoken about his decision, and Chiesa's subsequent behaviour in training has been noted.
Arne Slot explains Federico Chiesa decision
Slot confessed that Chiesa was unhappy after learning he wouldn't be playing in European nights at Anfield. Chiesa has made 16 Champions League appearances during his career, including three games for Liverpool last season, but was passed over in favour of Ngumoha, who isn't eligible for a homegrown place or a spot on 'List B' due to signing from Chelsea last summer.
"Of course, that is one of the most difficult things you have to do as a manager," Slot explained. "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.
"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."
Arne Slot congratulates Federico Chiesa
Arne Slot has discussed Federico Chiesa's reaction to being left out of Liverpool's Champions League squad
Federico Chiesa's reaction
Chiesa has responded to the setback by showing his determination to prove himself on the pitch. The Italian winger made another substitute appearance in Liverpool's 1-0 victory against Burnley on Sunday, and his reaction to missing out on the Champions League squad has been telling, with Slot previously praising Chiesa's approach this campaign.
"I see a totally different Federico now than from large parts of last season," Slot said after the team's opening win over Bournemouth. "It is completely normal because he missed out on the whole pre-season and then came into a Premier League rhythm in terms of the amount of games and in terms of intensity.
"If he is more available then he has more chances to impact our results or his playing time. But then it is about him staying as fit as he is at the moment."
Federico Chiesa in Liverpool training
Liverpool winger Federico Chiesa has been praised for his approach in training(Image: Nick Taylor/Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
Federico Chiesa's attitude in training
Liverpool revealed their Champions League squad shortly after the transfer window closed. Chiesa had reportedly attracted interest from other clubs before being left out, but he hasn't allowed his frustration to impact his professionalism.
Responding to Chiesa's assertion that he was committed to helping the side secure silverware, Slot said: "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 attitude was particularly evident during Liverpool's Inside Training footage last week. As he completed various exercises and drills, supporters commended Chiesa's character in the comments section.
One fan posted: "I just love Chiesa's attitude and his work rate, of course," while another commented: "Chiesa, I've got a soft spot for that guy. I love his attitude."
A third hoped that Chiesa's behaviour would be recognised, writing: "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."