The Italian forward was listed among Arne Slot’s nine substitutes when Liverpool’s starting line-up was revealed 75 minutes before kick-off, with the main talking point being Mo Salah’s return to the XI for the first time in eight weeks.
Although the 28-year-old has featured as a substitute in three European games this season, he will not be increasing that number at the Stade Velodrome.
Chiesa suffers injury during warm-up in Marseille
Less than ten minutes after the match began, news emerged that Chiesa had been injured during the warm-up. Sky Sports reporter Vinny O’Connor relayed the update via the broadcaster’s live online commentary at 20:08.
Liverpool Echo journalist Ian Doyle also confirmed the issue after learning of it in the press box at the Stade Velodrome, and Darren Fletcher referenced it early on during TNT Sports’ match commentary.
Another setback deepens Chiesa’s frustration at Liverpool
While the full extent of the injury has not yet been confirmed, it represents another frustrating blow for the Italian, who has already been the subject of speculation surrounding a possible January departure following another campaign with limited starts.
The 28-year-old has often been introduced from the bench this season, but that option will not be available tonight even if Liverpool are chasing a late goal. Slot is instead expected to turn to Cody Gakpo and or Rio Ngumoha if needed.
This latest setback for the number 14 only heightens appreciation for Salah’s return, bolstering Liverpool’s attacking resources which had already been weakened by Alexander Isak’s long-term injury, with the striker not expected back until at least March.
Slot is likely to be questioned about Chiesa’s condition during his post-match press conference, with hopes that the injury is not too serious and that the popular Italian will be back in contention soon.
