A new injury setback has struck Liverpool just minutes into their Champions League match against Marseille.

Liverpool supporters were dealt another injury scare involving Federico Chiesa just minutes into the Champions League meeting with Marseille.

The Italian winger had been listed among Arne Slot’s nine substitutes when the team news dropped 75 minutes before kick-off, with Mohamed Salah’s first start in eight weeks the main talking point. Chiesa has featured off the bench in three European fixtures this season, but that run won’t be extended at the Stade Velodrome.

Chiesa injured during pre-match warm-up
Within 10 minutes of kick-off, reports emerged that Chiesa had suffered an injury during the warm-up. Sky Sports reporter Vinny O’Connor relayed the update via the broadcaster’s live text commentary at 20:08, with Liverpool Echo journalist Ian Doyle also confirming the news from the press box. The issue was later referenced by Darren Fletcher on TNT Sports commentary early in the game.

Another setback for Chiesa

Although the nature and seriousness of the injury are still unclear, it adds to a frustrating spell for the 28-year-old, who has been linked with a possible January departure after another campaign dominated by limited starts.
Chiesa has often been used as an impact substitute this season, but that option is now off the table tonight, even if Liverpool are chasing a late goal. Instead, Slot may turn to Cody Gakpo or Rio Ngumoha if attacking changes are needed.

The setback makes Mohamed Salah’s return even more significant, especially with Liverpool’s attacking depth already stretched by Alexander Isak’s long-term absence, with the striker not expected back until at least March. Slot is likely to be pressed for an update on Chiesa after the match, with hopes that the injury proves to be minor and that the Italian can return to action soon.