Liverpool cuts ties with Federico Chiesa, Champions League eligibility details exposed
In a surprising move, Liverpool manager Arne Slot has made a decision regarding his squad for the upcoming Champions League campaign. The Dutch tactician has opted to include the young talents Rio Ngumoha and Giovanni Leoni ahead of established star Federico Chiesa.
Ngumoha, a 16-year-old prodigy who transferred from Chelsea last year, made headlines with his match-winning turn from the bench against Newcastle, becoming one of the Premier League's youngest-ever goalscorers. His impressive performance has not gone unnoticed, with Liverpool seeing a huge future ahead for the youngster.
Slot had to manage Chiesa's minutes last season due to his frequent injuries, but the Italian international has been excluded from Liverpool's 22-man Champions League squad. There is still plenty of opportunity for Chiesa to get minutes, but the club's faith in Ngumoha may be pushing him further down the pecking order.
The inclusion of Ngumoha and Leoni in the squad gives Liverpool extra competition for places in the forward line. With Liverpool topping the league phase last season and aiming to put in a better showing in the Champions League and domestic cups this season, the competition for places is expected to be fierce.
Champions League squads can consist of up to 25 senior players, but a maximum of 17 non-homegrown players can be included. Jeremie Frimpong, a homegrown player for Liverpool, having come through Manchester City's academy as a teenager, is likely to secure a spot in the squad.
Liverpool will face Atletico Madrid in their first Champions League game, with the match taking place on September 17. The game against Atletico Madrid will mark the start of the Champions League league phase, which will commence after the game against Burnley, Liverpool's first post-international break game.
Ngumoha and Leoni cannot be included on Liverpool's B list of young players as they have been at the club for less than two years. Despite this, their inclusion in the squad is a testament to their talent and potential, and they are likely to play a significant role in Liverpool's future.
In conclusion, Liverpool's decision to include young talents Ngumoha and Leoni ahead of Chiesa is a bold move that could pay off in the long run. With the club aiming to compete at the highest level in both the Champions League and the Premier League, the inclusion of these young talents is a clear statement of intent. The upcoming games against Burnley and Atletico Madrid will provide an early test of whether Liverpool's faith in their young stars is well-placed.
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