Liverpool News

Luis Díaz is one of the obstacles for forward Chiesa at Liverpool

Arne Slot spoke about the competition in the Reds' attacking area

By Martin Fernandez

Arne Slot spoke about the competition in the Reds' attacking area
Arne Slot spoke about the competition in the Reds' attacking area
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Luis Díaz rested, Liverpool lost, but remains top in the Champions League

Defeat against PSV, but direct passage to the round of 16

Liverpool lost 3-2 on their visit to PSV in the final matchday of the Champions League league phase. However, Arne Slot's team had already secured the top spot in the overall standings, allowing them to skip the playoffs and advance directly to the round of 16.

Rotations and rest for key players

The Dutch coach decided to rest several players, including Luis Díaz, knowing that qualification was already secured. Now, the team is focused on their next challenge: Bournemouth in Premier League Matchweek 24, this Saturday, February 1, at 10:00 a.m. (Colombian time).

“If you look at our season, every three, four, or five weeks, we have tried to create a moment where Virgil and the others don’t play a game. Those who stayed didn’t rest, they trained. It gives us no guarantees for Saturday, but hopefully, it will help keep them fresh,” Slot explained in a press conference.

Federico Chiesa and the tough competition in attack

Chiesa got minutes in the Champions League but is still struggling to establish himself

The match against PSV allowed Federico Chiesa to play a full 90 minutes. The Italian joined Liverpool this season, but injuries have made it difficult for him to get consistent playing time.

Fierce competition in the Reds' attack

Beyond his fitness issues, Chiesa is facing a tough battle for a place in the attack. Slot made this clear:

“(Chiesa) is ready for more minutes. If he can play 90 minutes in the Champions League, he can play in the Premier League. His main problem is that he has competition with Díaz, Gakpo, Núñez, Salah, and Jota. They are also performing very well. A big compliment to him for how hard he has worked.”

Slot’s preferred attacking trio this season has been Mohamed Salah, Cody Gakpo, and Luis Díaz. Their numbers justify it, as they are the team’s top scorers. The Colombian has 12 goals and 2 assists in 30 appearances in the 2024/25 season.

With such strong internal competition, Chiesa will have to keep fighting for a place in Liverpool’s starting XI.


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