Arne Slot Liverpool injury latest has provided a mixed update ahead of a crucial Premier League trip to Chelsea. The Reds will travel to Stamford Bridge on Saturday desperate to avoid a third straight defeat across all competitions after losses to Crystal Palace and Galatasaray.
The good news for Liverpool is that striker Hugo Ekitike is in contention to feature. The 23-year-old forward was forced off in the second half of Tuesday’s Champions League defeat in Istanbul but has recovered quickly enough to be considered for the weekend.
Slot hopeful on Ekitike and Chiesa
Slot, speaking in his pre-match press conference, revealed both Ekitike and Federico Chiesa will be assessed after Friday’s training session.
“Hugo is going to train today again and let’s see where he is,” Slot explained. “The same can be said for Federico, so we have to wait and see after the session.”
Ekitike’s potential availability is a significant boost for Liverpool after the Frenchman’s strong start to the season. Named in Didier Deschamps’ latest France squad on Thursday, he has already scored five goals in nine appearances across all competitions since his summer arrival.
Chiesa, meanwhile, sat out the Galatasaray clash with a minor niggle but is expected to rejoin the squad in time for the trip to London.
Alisson ruled out
The bad news is that first-choice goalkeeper Alisson Becker will miss the Chelsea fixture. The Brazilian sustained a hamstring problem against Galatasaray, compounding a frustrating night for the Reds.
Giorgi Mamardasjvili is expected to deputise between the posts at Stamford Bridge, with Alisson now undergoing treatment in the hope of a swift return.
“Hugo is going to train today again and let’s see where he is. The same can be said for Federico.” — Arne Slot
Liverpool’s form under pressure
Liverpool enter the weekend under scrutiny after back-to-back defeats that have halted their momentum. The loss in Istanbul was particularly damaging, not only for the result but also for the injuries sustained.
Saturday’s clash against Chelsea represents an opportunity to reset. With Ekitike pushing to prove his fitness and Chiesa ready to return, Slot will hope his attack can fire against a Chelsea side also struggling with injuries of their own.
| Stat (2025/26) | Hugo Ekitike |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 9 |
| Goals | 5 |
| Assists | — |
| Shots on target per game | — |
source: sofascore match data – October 2025
These figures demonstrate the instant impact Ekitike has made since joining Liverpool, making his recovery an urgent priority for Slot’s squad.
Analyst verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William commented: “Ekitike’s inclusion, even if from the bench, could transform Liverpool’s threat at Stamford Bridge. Alisson’s absence is a huge blow, but the return of Chiesa and Ekitike gives Liverpool the attacking edge they need to bounce back.”
He added: “Slot has to strike the balance between managing injuries and reigniting form. Chelsea away is never easy, but this game could be pivotal in halting a slide before it becomes a crisis.”
Key insights
- Hugo Ekitike could feature against Chelsea after training on Friday.
- Federico Chiesa is also close to returning from a minor issue.
- Alisson Becker is ruled out with a hamstring injury.
- Liverpool are seeking to end a run of two straight defeats.
- Analyst: Ekitike’s return may provide the edge Liverpool need.
What’s next for Liverpool?
Liverpool’s clash with Chelsea on Saturday evening offers a chance to steady the ship after successive setbacks. With Ekitike and Chiesa potentially back, Slot will hope for a more fluid attacking performance despite the blow of losing Alisson.
The international break follows immediately, giving injured players additional time to recover before a busy late-October schedule. Victory at Stamford Bridge, though, would ease growing pressure and reaffirm Liverpool’s top-four ambitions.
👉 Can Ekitike’s return inspire Liverpool to bounce back at Chelsea?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 3 Oct 2025 09:37
its going to be interesting game against us. We have to win this one, Liverpool is playing bad this season, yet they're still top of the table.
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