Slot admitted it was a painful call to make. "Of course, that is one of the most difficult things you have to do as a manager," the Dutchman said. "For a player not to play, it is not always easy to tell them, but not to be in the squad is even more difficult. I explained to him why we made this choice.

"He was not happy, but he gave me the answer you want from a player, that he will be there to help the team in the cups and in the league."

Chiesa, who has played 16 Champions League games in his career, reacted positively to the setback. He featured again as a substitute in Liverpool's 1-0 win at Burnley on Sunday and has impressed Slot with his renewed focus in training.

"I see a totally different Federico now compared to large parts of last season," Slot said. "If he is more available, then he has more chances to impact our results. But it is about him staying as fit as he is at the moment."

Chiesa had been linked with a late move away before the transfer deadline but decided to stay and fight for his place. Liverpool's decision to include Ngumoha, who joined from Chelsea last summer, underlines Slot's commitment to giving opportunities to younger players.

The Italian's challenge now will be to convince his manager that he deserves more than just a supporting role as Liverpool balance domestic ambitions with another push for European glory.

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The encounter marks the opening fixture of the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League league phase and will be the first competitive meeting between the two clubs.

For Athletic, it is a particularly poignant occasion, as they return to Europe's top competition after an 11-year absence. The atmosphere in Bilbao is expected to be electric, with fans viewing the match as a landmark moment in the club's modern history.

Valverde was candid in his assessment of the challenge ahead, admitting his side would need a flawless display to compete with Arsenal. He even went so far as to rank Arteta's team alongside the very best in Spain,

Man Utd captain Bruno Fernandes identifies his best Old Trafford memories