Federico Chiesa and Hugo Ekitike
As the season stretches on—with the hopes of lifting trophies ever alive—the burden of keeping injuries at bay becomes essential. A single injury can cascade into increased demands on the rest of the squad.
For Liverpool’s upcoming clash with Chelsea this Saturday, it has already been confirmed that goalkeeper Alisson will be unavailable. Meanwhile, new signing Giovanni Leoni is also out long term.
The two players whose fitness is under scrutiny are forwards Federico Chiesa and Hugo Ekitike. Chiesa was omitted from the squad against Crystal Palace due to a mild physical issue, and Ekitike was forced off during that match after encountering a problem on the pitch.
In a press conference held Friday morning, head coach Arne Slot declined to provide a definitive answer on whether the duo would make the lineup against Chelsea. However, he did note: “Both are scheduled to train on Friday,” and that their inclusion would depend on how they perform in training.
Liverpool have had their fair share of challenges in terms of form this season, but it’s no small feat that they currently sit atop the Premier League standings.
With so many new faces in the squad, it will take time for the ideal unit to take shape, and results must come in the meantime.
Chiesa and Ekitike are among the standout performers in recent matches, and I believe they’re indispensable to the squad right now. All eyes will be on them this weekend—whether they can turn up and make a difference.