Why Florian Wirtz is not in the squad to face Chelsea

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Liverpool head into Saturday’s crucial home clash against Chelsea already short of several senior players. Image Credits: Imago ImagesLiverpool head into Saturday’s crucial home clash against Chelsea already short of several senior players.Germany international Florian Wirtz has been one of the few consistent bright spots in a difficult season for the Reds, and losing him ahead of a fixture this important would have been a significant blow.Fortunately, the explanation turned out to be far more straightforward than feared.The German missed out on the squad due to illness as per James Pearce.Wirtz is not the only notable absentee.Mo Salah and Alisson Becker both miss out through hamstring injuries, having not yet returned to full training.The pair remain close to fitness but Saturday has come too soon.It is a significant double absence, particularly given what is at stake.There is better news elsewhere.Giorgi Mamardashvili is back in goal after recovering from a nasty wound, with Freddie Woodman dropping to the bench.Alexander Isak, absent for last weekend’s 3-2 loss at Old Trafford due to a groin issue, is fit enough to take a place among the substitutes — a welcome option for Slot to call upon if the game demands it.Liverpool’s confirmed lineup reads: Mamardashvili; Jones, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Frimpong, Szoboszlai, Ngumoha; Gakpo.Liverpool sit fourth in the Premier League with 58 points, six clear of Bournemouth, and will seal Champions League football with a win over Chelsea if the Cherries drop points at Fulham.No Florian Wirtz today due to illness #LFC— James Pearce (@JamesPearceLFC) May 9, 2026 Florian Wirtz