Iraola hints at Chiesa opportunities as Liverpool face attacking injury pile-up

Federico Chiesa could receive increased playing opportunities for Liverpool following an attacking injury crisis ahead of their clash with Manchester City. Head coach Andoni Iraola confirmed that Chiesa is nearing a return to action after recovering from a muscular injury during the international break. With Alexander Isak, Hugo Ekitike, and Cody Gakpo all sidelined, Chiesa may be utilized in an advanced central role.

Iraola noted that Chiesa has trained well with a small group but warned that the forward lacks competitive match sharpness. The manager suggested that wingers with prior experience playing up front, including Chiesa from his time at Juventus and Italy, offer vital solutions, with Lewis Koumas currently representing the squad's only natural number nine.