Federico Chiesa arrived at Liverpool with a spark, initially electrifying matches with impactful bursts from the bench. He carried the weight of expectation, a player capable of changing a game in an instant.
However, the promise of consistent playing time under Arne Slot has yet to materialize. Despite demonstrating commitment and effort, Chiesa finds himself watching from the sidelines more often than he’d like.
The summer brought whispers of a potential departure, a chance for a fresh start elsewhere. Chiesa, though, made a determined decision: he would fight for his place at Anfield, proving his worth to the new manager.
That fight has proven difficult. Slot seems firmly settled on Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo in the wide positions, and even during periods of team struggle, opportunities for Chiesa have been scarce.
The situation has led to a growing sense of frustration for the Italian international. He desperately needs regular minutes, not just for his club’s benefit, but for his international aspirations as well.
With the World Cup looming on the horizon, Chiesa is determined to reclaim his place in the Italy squad under coach Gennaro Gattuso. A spot on the plane requires consistent, high-level football – something he isn’t currently receiving.
Italian clubs are already monitoring the situation closely, prepared to offer Chiesa an escape route in the January transfer window. They recognize a talent languishing, a player capable of brilliance when given the chance.
Chiesa publicly maintains his desire to remain at Liverpool, to compete for his position and contribute to the team’s success. He believes in his ability to impact games and wants to earn his place.
But the reality is stark: unless his playing time dramatically increases in the next two months, a January exit becomes increasingly likely. The allure of regular football, and a guaranteed World Cup spot, could prove too strong to resist.
The coming weeks will be crucial. Every appearance, every minute on the pitch, will be scrutinized, not just by Liverpool fans, but by the Italian national team setup and a host of clubs across Europe.
The current dynamic feels precarious. While both Liverpool and Chiesa express a desire to continue together, the underlying tension is undeniable. Slot’s integration of the winger has been slow, and opportunities haven’t presented themselves when they might have.
Despite becoming a favorite among the Anfield faithful for his flashes of brilliance, Chiesa’s personal ambitions are being stifled. He’s a player who needs to feel impactful, a player who needs to play.
The situation is far from resolved, and the next two months will be a defining period for Chiesa’s Liverpool career. The game time he receives – or doesn’t – will ultimately dictate his future.
