Galatasaray supporters celebrate after the football club was crowned champion of Turkey's top division for a record 22nd time on May 19, 2019 in Istanbul. - Galatasaray sealed their 22nd Turkish league title with a dramatic 2-1 win over nearest challengers Istanbul Basaksehir in a capital-city derby marred by violence. (Photo by Yasin AKGUL / AFP) (Photo credit should read YASIN AKGUL/AFP/Getty Images)
Liverpool manager Arne Slot has confirmed a fresh injury crisis as his side touched down in Turkey for Tuesday’s high-stakes Champions League Round of 16 opener against Galatasaray.
The Reds have traveled with a lean 21-man squad, bolstered by several academy prospects, after two key senior stars were ruled out just hours before departure.
Alisson and Chiesa Miss the Flight
The most significant setback involves Alisson Becker. Despite participating in Monday’s final training session at the AXA Training Centre, the Brazilian goalkeeper reported a late physical issue that forced him out of the traveling party.
“Ali was in the session, as many saw,” Slot told reporters during his pre-match press conference at RAMS Park. “But unfortunately, he felt something towards the end. After an assessment, we decided together that he wasn’t fit to play tomorrow, so there was no point in him traveling.”
While Alisson’s absence is a blow, Slot offered a glimmer of hope for the weekend, stating there is “definitely a chance” the keeper returns for Sunday’s Premier League clash against Tottenham. In his absence, Giorgi Mamardashvili is expected to start in goal.
Meanwhile, Federico Chiesa also stayed behind on Merseyside. The Italian forward reportedly felt unwell on Sunday evening and was unable to train or travel, further thinning Slot’s options on the bench.
Squad Reinforcements and Youth Presence
With six senior players unavailable—including long-term absentees Wataru Endo, Conor Bradley, and Giovanni Leoni—Slot has turned to the club’s youth ranks. Teenagers Amara Nallo, Kieran Morrison, and young goalkeeper Kornel Misciur have all been included in the European roster.
However, there is positive news regarding the starting XI:
Midfield Boost: Alexis Mac Allister trained fully on Monday and has shaken off the knock that saw him hobble off against Wolves on Friday.
Return of the Stars: Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong are both in contention to start after successful cameos over the weekend, while Ibrahima Konaté is set to return to the heart of the defense.
The Isak Factor: While Alexander Isak remains out with a broken leg, Slot hinted that the club’s record signing is nearing a return, potentially as early as late March.
Hunting for Redemption
Liverpool are seeking to avenge a 1-0 defeat suffered at this stadium during the league phase in September. With Hugo Ekitike expected to lead the line after being rested on Friday, the Reds are aiming for a vital away result before the return leg at Anfield next week.
“It’s about the players who are here now,” Slot insisted. “We have a strong enough group to perform at the level required.”