Iraola Hints at Chiesa Opportunities as Liverpool Face Attacking Injury Crisis Ahead of Manchester City Clash

FolioPitch.com – 09 October 2026 | Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola has hinted that Federico Chiesa could be set for an unexpected return to the spotlight, with the Italian winger nearing full fitness just as the club’s attacking options dwindle. As Liverpool prepare for a pivotal Premier League showdown against Manchester City on Sunday, Iraola hints at Chiesa opportunities as Liverpool face attacking injury pile-up, with Alexander Isak, Hugo Ekitike, and Cody Gakpo all unavailable.

Chiesa, who has yet to feature for Liverpool in the 2026-27 campaign due to a muscular injury, has been training with a small group during the international break. His progress has impressed the coaching staff, and with the forward line severely depleted, the 28-year-old could be thrust back into competitive action sooner than expected.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Friday, Iraola acknowledged the severity of the situation. “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,” he said. “We don’t have Hugo, we don’t have Alex. 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 absences leave Liverpool dangerously thin at centre-forward. The only recognised No.9 currently available is youngster Koumas, but Iraola remains pragmatic. “A pure No.9, it’s true that we probably only have Koumas right now, but we have some other options,” he explained. “We have some wingers who have played up front in other teams and I think we will put out an XI ready to compete in that game.”

That is where Chiesa comes in. The former Juventus and Fiorentina star has extensive experience playing as a second striker or even a false nine for both club and country. His versatility could be the key to unlocking Manchester City’s defence, though Iraola cautioned that Chiesa lacks match sharpness. “He hasn’t had an opportunity to test himself in a competitive match environment,” the coach noted. “But given the circumstances, there might be opportunities for wingers who have played up front in other teams.”

Iraola hints at Chiesa opportunities as Liverpool face attacking injury pile-up, and the timing could not be more critical. Liverpool sit just three points behind Manchester City in the Premier League table, and a victory at the Etihad would send a strong statement. However, without their first-choice front three, the odds are stacked against them.

The injury list is extensive. Isak, signed in a blockbuster deal last summer, has been sidelined with a hamstring problem. Ekitike, another marquee addition, is recovering from an ankle issue. Gakpo, who has been in fine form, picked up a knock on international duty. Their absence leaves Liverpool with limited attacking firepower, and Iraola may be forced to field a makeshift front line.

Chiesa’s potential return is a rare piece of good news. The Italian international has been working tirelessly at the AXA Training Centre, and his teammates have reportedly been impressed by his dedication. If he can stay fit, he could provide the spark Liverpool need to navigate this difficult period.

Iraola hints at Chiesa opportunities as Liverpool face attacking injury pile-up, and the coach’s comments suggest he is ready to trust the winger. “Fede has been doing a good job,” Iraola repeated. “He is recovering, and we will see. But we have to be careful because he hasn’t played any minutes.”

The match against Manchester City will be a stern test of Liverpool’s depth. Pep Guardiola’s side are notoriously difficult to break down, and without a recognised striker, the Reds may need to rely on set-pieces or individual brilliance. Chiesa’s ability to drift inside and shoot from distance could be a valuable weapon.

Beyond Sunday, Liverpool face a congested fixture list, including a Champions League tie and a League Cup quarter-final. The return of Chiesa and eventually the other forwards will be crucial to their hopes of silverware. For now, Iraola must make do with what he has.

Iraola hints at Chiesa opportunities as Liverpool face attacking injury pile-up, and the coming weeks could define their season. If Chiesa can recapture the form that made him one of Europe’s most feared wingers, Liverpool might just weather the storm.

In conclusion, Liverpool’s attacking injury crisis has opened the door for Federico Chiesa to resurrect his Anfield career. While his lack of match fitness is a concern, his experience and versatility make him a valuable asset. Iraola’s men face a daunting task against Manchester City, but with Chiesa potentially back in the fold, they have a fighting chance. The next few matches will reveal whether Liverpool can cope without their star strikers, or whether Chiesa can seize his opportunity and become the hero they desperately need.