Iraola Hints at Chiesa Return as Liverpool Face Striker Crisis

Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola has hinted that Federico Chiesa could be in line for increased opportunities after recovering from an injury issue over the international break, with the club currently facing a significant attacking injury pile-up ahead of Sunday's Premier League match against Manchester City.

Chiesa Edges Closer to Return

Chiesa has not featured at all for Liverpool in the 2026-27 season due to a muscular injury. However, Iraola confirmed on Friday that the Italian winger is closing in on a return to competitive action and has impressed during the international break.

According to the Liverpool boss, Chiesa “has been doing a good job” in training with the small group of players who remained at the club during the international window. Iraola did, however, caution that Chiesa has not yet had the opportunity to test himself in a competitive match environment, meaning any return will need to be managed carefully.

Chiesa's versatility could prove crucial. The former Juventus and Italy man has previously played up front for both club and country, and with Liverpool's centre-forward options severely depleted, Iraola acknowledged that “wingers who have played up front in other teams” might be called upon to fill the void.

Three First-Choice Strikers Unavailable

Liverpool's attacking crisis is stark. Alexander Isak, Hugo Ekitike and Cody Gakpo are all currently unavailable, leaving Iraola without three of his first-choice centre-forward options for the trip to face Manchester City.

Speaking in his pre-match press conference on Friday, Iraola said: “Even before [the injuries to Isak and Gakpo], we don’t have Hugo Ekitike, another very good centre-forward I’m looking forward to having available. We don’t have Hugo, we don’t have Alex [Isak]. We will maybe recover Fede Chiesa, but he hasn’t played any minutes, he’s recovering from an injury, but he has been doing a good job in the international break, he’s been training with the small group we had.”

The Liverpool boss also noted that a “pure no.9” is not currently at his disposal, further highlighting the makeshift nature of his attacking options for the weekend.

With Isak, Ekitike and Gakpo all sidelined, the onus may fall on players who can operate in wider roles but have experience through the middle. Chiesa fits that profile, though his lack of match sharpness remains a concern.

Premier League Injury Picture Elsewhere

Liverpool are not the only Premier League club dealing with injury headaches. According to reports from Friday's press conferences, several other top-flight managers provided updates on their squads.

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta gave injury updates on Tzolis, Kai Havertz, Konsa and Declan Rice, though full details of their availability were not immediately clear.

Manchester United received a blow with confirmation that Dorgu is facing weeks out with an injury, as confirmed by Carrick.

Chelsea manager Alonso also provided an injury update on key players, adding to the growing list of fitness concerns across the division.

For Liverpool, the situation is particularly acute in attack. The absence of Isak, Ekitike and Gakpo for such a high-profile fixture against Manchester City could force Iraola into a tactical rethink. Chiesa's potential return offers a glimmer of hope, but the Italian's lack of competitive minutes means he is unlikely to be thrown straight into the starting XI.

What It Means for Sunday

Liverpool's trip to Manchester City is always a demanding fixture, but the attacking absentees make the challenge even greater. Iraola will need to find a solution that balances creativity and cutting edge without his first-choice forwards.

Chiesa's recovery is a positive step, but the Liverpool boss was careful not to overstate his readiness. The winger's last competitive appearance came before the 2026-27 season, and a muscular injury of this nature often requires a gradual reintroduction.

For now, Liverpool fans will hope that Chiesa can provide a timely boost, even if only from the bench. With Isak, Ekitike and Gakpo all out, every available attacking option becomes vital.

As the Premier League season progresses, squad depth will be tested across the board. Liverpool's injury situation is a reminder of how quickly a campaign can be disrupted. For the latest injury news and updates, keep an eye on our latest football news section.

For those looking ahead to the weekend's fixtures, our Premier League predictions and today's AI betting tips can provide further insight.