Liverpool look certain to lose two players in 2027 as transfer strategy pays off despite 'mistake'

Chiesa and Endo have combined for just two minutes this season under Iraola and are expected to leave Liverpool in 2027, with academy prospects Nyoni and Koumas preferred.

Federico Chiesa and Wataru Endo's futures at Liverpool look increasingly bleak. The pair have managed just two minutes of action between them this season, with Chiesa appearing for 88 seconds in the 3-0 loss to Manchester City and Endo unused in nine consecutive matchdays. Both were omitted from Iraola's 25-man Champions League squad, a clear signal of their standing in the pecking order.

Iraola has instead favoured Liverpool's academy players, with Lewis Koumas and Trey Nyoni earning regular opportunities. The manager previously suggested Endo would have his moments, but with the midfielder still recovering from pre-season issues and facing stiff competition, those chances have not materialised. Chiesa similarly suffered pre-season injury setbacks.

Endo is out of contract next summer and will depart in 2027, either in January or as a free agent. Chiesa's situation is more complex—he is contracted until 2028 and continues to be linked with a return to Italy. A January exit could materialise if an offer comes in; otherwise, next summer represents Liverpool's last realistic opportunity to sell him. The club's strategy of promoting academy talent has proven successful, with recent graduates earning £185.5m in sales over two years.