Liverpool Consider Chiesa as Emergency Striker for Manchester City Clash

Liverpool could turn to Federico Chiesa in an unfamiliar central role against Manchester City on Sunday, with Andoni Iraola short of recognised forwards and the Italy international nearing the end of a muscular-injury recovery.

What changed for the club

Chiesa has not made an appearance for Liverpool this season because of continuing fitness problems, but his work during the international break has raised the prospect of a first involvement. Iraola said the winger had trained well with the reduced group available at the club, while stressing that he has not yet played any competitive minutes.

The manager’s options have narrowed sharply after Alexander Isak, Cody Gakpo and Hugo Ekitike were all ruled out. Iraola described Ekitike as another high-quality centre-forward he is waiting to have back, adding that both Ekitike and Isak are unavailable.

Lewis Koumas is currently Liverpool’s only out-and-out No. 9. However, Chiesa could offer an alternative through the middle, having previously played as a striker for Juventus and Italy. Iraola also noted that other wide players in the squad have filled in up front for former clubs.

Competition context

The shortage arrives before a major Premier League meeting with Manchester City. Liverpool must decide whether to build the attack around Koumas as the natural centre-forward or use Chiesa centrally despite his lack of match action.

Chiesa’s possible return would give Liverpool an additional attacking option, but Iraola’s update remained measured: the 28-year-old is still completing his recovery and has yet to establish match sharpness.

What is scheduled next

• Liverpool face Manchester City in the Premier League on Sunday.
• Iraola must settle on a forward line without Isak, Gakpo and Ekitike.
• Chiesa’s selection, either from the start or as an option during the match, will depend on his readiness after injury.