Liverpool's Italian forward, Federico Chiesa, has found himself in a challenging position since joining the club in September 2024. Despite his diligent efforts and two Premier League goals this season, he has struggled to secure a regular starting spot under manager Arne Slot. This lack of integration has become particularly evident following Slot's recent remarks, which have further fueled speculation about Chiesa's future at Anfield, with a potential return to Juventus looming.
Arne Slot's Tactical Choices Raise Questions About Chiesa's Future at Liverpool
Since his arrival at Liverpool in the autumn of 2024, Federico Chiesa has faced an uphill battle for a regular place in the starting XI. The 28-year-old Italian international initially required time to achieve match fitness, frequently missing out on selection during the 2024/25 Premier League title-winning season under Arne Slot. Despite his perseverance and his contributions of two Premier League goals, he has not managed to convince Slot to make him a consistent starter in the current campaign.
A notable instance of Chiesa's limited opportunities was his solitary league start against Wolves, which occurred only when star player Mohamed Salah was away on international duty at the Africa Cup of Nations. Upon Salah's return, Chiesa once again found himself relegated to the bench, highlighting his peripheral role within the squad.
Adding to the uncertainty surrounding Chiesa's future are the recent comments made by Arne Slot. While previewing an upcoming Premier League fixture against Bournemouth, Slot specifically praised Jeremie Frimpong for his contributions on the right wing during Salah's absence. Slot highlighted Frimpong's intensity and sprinting ability, noting his significant impact in the games he played and expressing disappointment over his injury-enforced unavailability. Conspicuously absent from Slot's commendations was any mention of Chiesa, despite him also being an option for the right wing. This oversight has been interpreted by many as a clear indication that Slot does not view Chiesa as a primary choice for that position, effectively undermining the Italian's standing within the team.
This perceived lack of confidence from the manager, coupled with Chiesa's current injury woes (having pulled out of the warm-up before the midweek victory against Marseille), has intensified discussions about a possible move. Juventus, Chiesa's former club, has reportedly expressed interest in bringing him back to Turin. Such a move would not only offer Chiesa a fresh start but also a crucial opportunity to regain form and secure a place in Italy's squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup playoffs in March, a clear incentive for the forward.
The ongoing saga between Federico Chiesa and Arne Slot serves as a poignant reminder of the intricate dynamics within top-tier football. It underscores how a player's talent, no matter how evident, must align with a manager's tactical vision and selection preferences to thrive. For Chiesa, this period at Liverpool has been fraught with challenges, illustrating the difficulties of adapting to a new system and earning a consistent role in a highly competitive squad. His situation prompts reflection on the importance of clear communication and mutual understanding between players and coaching staff. If a player feels undervalued or misutilized, it can significantly impact their performance and morale, ultimately leading to a desire for a fresh start. The developing narrative suggests that both parties may benefit from a resolution that allows Chiesa to find a club where his abilities are fully appreciated and utilized, particularly as he seeks to reignite his international career ahead of crucial World Cup qualifiers.