However, UEFA’s rule change for all their men’s club competitions this season allows for the temporary replacement of a player named in the squad who suffers a long-term injury or illness before matchday, allowed for Chiesa to be drafted in.
As a result, the Reds confirmed their request to replace Leoni with Chiesa was approved.
A statement read: ‘UEFA have approved a request to add the Italian to the Reds’ ‘List A’, in line with a new regulation allowing a change in the event of a long-term absence.
‘Chiesa replaces Giovanni Leoni in the club’s pool of eligible players for the league phase and will be available for the trip to Galatasaray next week.’
Left out: Federico Chiesa
Liverpool FC via Getty Images
It is understood that Chiesa is not dealing with an injury, so confirmation of why he has been left at home is expected to arrive later on Monday when Slot addresses the media.
Summer signing Alexander Isak is among the 21 players who have been named in the travelling squad along with Hugo Ekitike following his domestic suspension as the Reds look to bounce back from their first defeat of the season.
Confirmed Liverpool squad
Goalkeepers: Alisson, Mamardashvili, Woodman
Defenders: Gomez, Van Dijk, Konate, Kerkez, Bradley, Robertson, Frimpong
Midfielders: Endo, Szoboszlai, Mac Allister, Jones, Gravenberch
Forwards: Wirtz, Isak, Salah, Gakpo, Ekitike, Ngumoha.
