Federico Chiesa arrived at Liverpool in August 2024 with high expectations and a reputation as one of Italy’s most dynamic wingers. Less than a year later, his future at Anfield is already the subject of intense speculation. With transfer rumours swirling and his place in both club and country in doubt, Chiesa’s story has become one of the Premier League’s most intriguing talking points.
The Journey to Anfield
Chiesa’s professional journey began at Fiorentina, where he emerged as a standout talent in Serie A. His pace, directness, and technical ability quickly caught the eye of Juventus, who signed him in 2020. At Juventus, Chiesa’s versatility shone through, as he played across the front three and even as a wing-back. His performances at Euro 2020, where he played a key role in Italy’s triumph, cemented his reputation as a player for the big occasion.
Liverpool secured his signature on 29 August 2024, paying a reported £10 million plus add-ons. Italian football expert Rav Gopal described Chiesa as “perfect for Liverpool,” praising his aggressive style and ability to take on defenders—traits well suited to the Premier League’s intensity. The move was seen as a coup for Liverpool, adding depth and unpredictability to their already formidable attack.
A Mixed Start on Merseyside
Chiesa’s debut for Liverpool came as a late substitute in the Champions League against Milan. He made his first start in a 5–1 EFL Cup win over West Ham, providing an assist and showcasing flashes of his talent. He scored his first Liverpool goal in the FA Cup against Accrington Stanley and netted again in the EFL Cup final, though Liverpool lost to Newcastle United.
Despite these moments, Chiesa has struggled for regular minutes under manager Arne Slot. In the Premier League, he has made only five appearances, all as a substitute, totalling just 41 minutes on the pitch. While he did receive a Premier League winner’s medal, becoming only the second Italian to do so after Mario Balotelli, his limited involvement has raised questions about his role at the club.
Injury Woes and Fitness Struggles
Chiesa’s adaptation to English football has been hampered by fitness issues. After his first start in the Carabao Cup, he suffered a setback and has since battled recurring injuries. Manager Arne Slot has been cautious, stating, “Sometimes he’s there with us, trains a few days, and then goes out for injury again. I don’t want to put any pressure on him by coming up with dates”. This uncertainty has made it difficult for Chiesa to build momentum and stake a claim for a regular starting spot.
Transfer Speculation and Napoli Interest
With the summer transfer window open, Chiesa’s future at Liverpool is far from secure. Reports indicate that Liverpool are open to a loan move, possibly with a mandatory purchase option, to give Chiesa more playing time. Napoli, managed by Antonio Conte, have emerged as the frontrunners for his signature. Conte, who has revived the careers of several high-profile players in Naples, sees Chiesa as a key addition. However, negotiations are complicated by Chiesa’s salary, with Napoli hoping Liverpool will cover part of his wages.
Other Serie A clubs, including AC Milan and Fiorentina, are also monitoring the situation. Liverpool are reportedly considering Malick Fofana as a replacement, signalling that Chiesa’s departure could be imminent. Six clubs are believed to be weighing up moves, making this one of the most closely watched transfer sagas of the summer.
National Team Implications
Chiesa’s lack of game time at Liverpool has not gone unnoticed by Italy’s national team management. Italy boss Gennaro Gattuso has publicly warned that Chiesa must play consistently if he wants to be part of the squad for the 2026 World Cup. The message is clear: to remain in contention for Italy, Chiesa must either fight for his place at Liverpool or secure a move where he will play regularly.
Luciano Spalletti, Italy’s previous manager, valued Chiesa’s versatility and suggested he could play as a second striker or on the wings in a 3-5-2 system. However, with Italy rebuilding after a disappointing Euro 2024, the pressure is on Chiesa to prove he can still deliver at the highest level.
What Next for Chiesa?
Chiesa’s situation is a reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in football. Once hailed as a perfect fit for Liverpool, he now faces a crossroads in his career. The coming weeks will be crucial. If he stays and fights for his place, he must overcome fitness concerns and adapt to the demands of the Premier League. If he leaves, a return to Serie A could offer the regular football and familiar environment he needs to regain his best form.
For Liverpool, the decision is equally significant. Chiesa’s technical quality and versatility remain valuable assets, but the club must weigh these against his injury record and desire for more minutes. With the transfer window in full swing, fans and pundits alike will be watching closely to see where Chiesa’s next chapter unfolds.
Conclusion
Federico Chiesa’s time at Liverpool has not gone as planned, but his talent and determination are undoubted. Whether he remains at Anfield or returns to Italy, his next move will shape not only his club career but also his international ambitions. As one of Europe’s most gifted wingers, Chiesa’s story is far from over—and the football world will be watching to see what happens next.
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