22 February 2026
Liverpool, managed by Arne Slot, has suffered a significant setback in the Champions League before entering the round of 16, with the draw scheduled for next Friday. UEFA will conduct the draw for the round of 16 on Friday afternoon, which will also include the draws for the quarter-finals and semi-finals.
Liverpool secured direct qualification to the Champions League round of 16 without needing to go through the play-off round, but they have been dealt a major blow.
Liverpool defender Wataru Endo suffered a serious injury during the Premier League match against Sunderland earlier this month. He fell to the ground in considerable pain and was stretchered off the pitch. The duration of the Japanese player's absence has not yet been determined, but manager Arne Slot confirmed the seriousness of the injury, suggesting he is expected to be out for an extended period, which will be a significant blow to Liverpool's full-back position.
Liverpool.com reported that Arne Slot will not be able to replace Wataru Endo in Liverpool's Champions League squad due to a specific UEFA rule, explaining that while one of UEFA's rules allows for a maximum of one player replacement in the event of a long-term injury or illness, this rule only applies to the first six league matches, a period that ended last December.
Liverpool currently has only 19 players from their squad available for this season's Champions League.
