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Federico Chiesa goes missing again! Liverpool boss Arne Slot explains why struggling winger was left out completely in West Ham rout
Federico Chiesa’s challenging start to life at Liverpool continues as he was left out of the squad for the Reds’ recent match against West Ham. Liverpool boss Arne Slot shed light on the decision, citing the need for a cautious approach to the winger’s recovery and fitness management.
The 27-year-old Italian, who joined Liverpool in a high-profile summer move from Juventus, has faced a difficult season marred by injuries and illnesses. Chiesa’s omission from the West Ham clash marks the 16th game he has missed this season, not including the two matches he was unavailable for immediately after his transfer.
Chiesa made a brief return to Liverpool’s bench during their 3-1 Boxing Day victory over Leicester City but was replaced by youth prospect Jayden Danns for the trip to London. After Liverpool’s emphatic win over West Ham, Slot elaborated on the decision:
“With Federico, I’ve said it many times already, we are working on two things. We are working on his match fitness and, whenever we can, we try to bring him on the bench with the team.
But he was on the bench during the week, and we thought it was better for him to have some extra training sessions instead of joining us. It’s a constant balance we have to find between getting him fitter and letting him join the team.”
Liverpool now turn their attention to their January 5 showdown against fierce rivals Manchester United at Anfield. As anticipation builds for the marquee fixture, the club remains focused on ensuring Chiesa’s fitness is carefully managed, with hopes of unlocking his full potential as the season progresses.