Bold Selections, Notable Omissions as Liverpool, Manchester City Unveil Champions League Squads

Premier League rivals, Liverpool and Manchester City have submitted their official squads for the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League league phase, and the announcements have stirred widespread reaction due to surprising omissions, bold selections, and contrasting strategies by both clubs. Liverpool named a 22-man List A, three short of the maximum 25 permitted by UEFA. The reduction was enforced by the squad registration rule requiring eight homegrown players, a quota Liverpool fell short of with just five, thereby limiting their overall allocation. Despite this, manager Arne Slot retained a strong lineup featuring Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, Florian Wirtz, Alexander Isak, Alexis Mac Allister, and first-choice goalkeeper Alisson Becker. New recruit Giorgi Mamardashvili was also included alongside Freddie Woodman, providing depth in goal. The biggest surprise came with the omission of Federico Chiesa. The Italian winger, who had impressed in Liverpool’s early-season fixtures, was left out of the European roster. Reports suggest the decision was shaped by the strict squad rules and an excess of attacking players, forcing the manager to make a difficult sacrifice. Instead, Slot promoted academy prospects Rio Ngumoha, aged 16, and Giovanni Leoni, 18, signalling a long-term commitment to youth development over immediate firepower. The decision has divided fans, with some disappointed to see Chiesa excluded, while others praise the club’s strategic focus on nurturing future stars. Manchester City, in contrast, submitted a 23-man squad that showcased both established talent and fresh arrivals. Pep Guardiola’s side retained its star core of Erling Haaland, Phil Foden, Bernardo Silva, Rodri, Ruben Dias, and Josko Gvardiol, while also integrating big-name summer signings. Gianluigi Donnarumma, James Trafford, Marcus Bettinelli, Rayan Aït-Nouri, Tijjani Reijnders, and Rayan Cherki all made the list, reflecting the manager’s desire to refresh his team while ensuring depth across the pitch. Guardiola’s choice to register four goalkeepers drew attention, but the move underlines his intent to maintain strong competition in every department. Youngsters Rico Lewis and Nico O’Reilly were placed on UEFA’s List B, keeping them available without taking up senior slots. The contrasting approaches highlight different priorities. Liverpool have opted for a leaner squad that blends experience with youthful energy, leaving room for potential January adjustments. Manchester City, on the other hand, have maximised their allocation, banking on squad depth and versatility to maintain their pursuit of silverware across all competitions. Liverpool will begin their Champions League campaign at Anfield against Atlético Madrid on September 17, while Manchester City open at the Etihad against Napoli. With both clubs hungry for European glory, the stage is set for a campaign that promises drama, tactical battles, and potential redemption, shaped in no small part by the selections made in these squad lists.