Liverpool fans got some surprising news as the club announced its squad for the 2025-26 Champions League.
UEFA rules have forced the Reds to leave a fan favourite out, highlighting the tricky decisions clubs face when naming squads for Europe’s top competition.
Understanding the UEFA Squad Rules
Teams can register 25 players for the Champions League, but only 17 can be non-homegrown.
Additionally, four players must have been trained by clubs in the same league, and another four by the club itself.
These restrictions often lead to tough omissions, and Liverpool’s squad is no exception.
Other Premier League clubs have faced similar dilemmas.
Tottenham left out a high-profile summer signing, while Chelsea had to omit a player who was eager to feature in the competition.
Federico Chiesa Misses Out
For Liverpool, the major absence is Federico Chiesa.
The winger, who joined Anfield last summer, has struggled with fitness issues and limited opportunities, featuring mostly as a substitute in the Premier League so far.
Chiesa did show glimpses of his talent, scoring in the League Cup final, but also endured setbacks, including a disappointing FA Cup exit against Plymouth.
With his game time limited, he will now miss out entirely on Champions League action this season.
New Signings Make the Cut
All other summer arrivals, including Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, Hugo Ekitike, and deadline-day signing Alexander Isak, have been included in the squad.
Had Isak not joined, Chiesa might have had a spot, but the competition for places was fierce.
Young Talent Steps Up
Liverpool has also included 17-year-old Rio Ngumoha, who made headlines with a dramatic late winner against Newcastle.
Though young and only recently signed from Chelsea, Ngumoha does not count as homegrown.
Players like Curtis Jones, Joe Gomez, and Andy Robertson help meet the homegrown requirements.
Champions League Hopes
After being knocked out in the last-16 by PSG last season, Liverpool will be aiming higher this year.
The Reds open their campaign at home against Atletico Madrid on September 17, and will also face heavyweights Real Madrid and Inter Milan in the group stage.
Having qualified as Premier League champions, Liverpool enters the competition as one of the favourites.
Squad changes are possible in February ahead of the knockout stages, including the addition of under-21 and academy players.
Liverpool’s Registered Champions League Squad
Goalkeepers: Alisson, Mamardashvili, Woodman
Defenders: Gomez, Van Dijk, Konate, Kerkez, Bradley, Leoni, Robertson, Frimpong
Midfielders: Endo, Wirtz, Szoboszlai, Mac Allister, Jones, Gravenberch
Forwards: Isak, Salah, Gakpo, Ekitike, Ngumoha