Liverpool have excluded forward Federico Chiesa and midfielder Wataru Endo from their 25-player squad list submitted for the Champions League league phase. The decision means neither player will be eligible to feature in Liverpool’s group-stage matches this season under UEFA’s registration rules, marking a notable shift in the club’s plans for both squad members.
Why were Chiesa and Endo left out?
Liverpool have not publicly detailed the exact reasoning behind the omissions, but the move suggests manager-led decisions on squad depth and tactical priorities rather than injury concerns. Clubs competing in the Champions League are permitted to name up to 25 players in their official squad, with additional flexibility for younger, homegrown players who fall outside the numerical limit. By leaving out Chiesa and Endo, Liverpool have effectively signalled that other options currently take precedence in their European plans.
The club confirmed the finalised 25-man list without either player included, in line with UEFA’s squad registration deadline.
What does this mean for the two players?
Being left off the list does not prevent Chiesa or Endo from playing in domestic competitions such as the Premier League, League Cup or FA Cup, but it does rule them out of Champions League league-phase involvement unless a mid-season amendment is made under UEFA’s list-B or injury-replacement provisions. For Chiesa, an Italy international who joined Liverpool with high expectations, the exclusion raises questions about his immediate first-team standing. Similarly, Endo, a Japan international and experienced midfielder, faces a period on the periphery of Liverpool’s European campaign despite remaining part of the broader squad.
What happens next for Liverpool in Europe?
Liverpool will proceed into the Champions League league phase with their confirmed 25-man group, built around players prioritised by the coaching staff for continental fixtures. The club retains the option to adjust the squad list later in the season should injuries or tactical needs arise, in accordance with UEFA regulations. For now, attention turns to how the selected group performs across the demanding league-phase schedule, while Chiesa and Endo will look to press their case for involvement in domestic fixtures.
