Chiesa’s Future at Anfield
Federico Chiesa, the Liverpool forward, has stated his contentment at the club despite ongoing speculation regarding his future. The Italy international joined Liverpool from Juventus in 2024 in a deal worth £12.5m and is contracted until 2028. Over two seasons at Anfield, Chiesa has made 50 appearances across all competitions, scoring five goals. He has started one Premier League game during this period.
Chiesa had previously indicated in June that he might need to explore other options if he did not achieve consistency in the Premier League. However, following a recent friendly match where Liverpool defeated Sunderland 4-2, Chiesa conveyed his current satisfaction with the club. He expressed his affection for Liverpool, its fans, and everything associated with it, stating his commitment to performing his best for a chance at the club.
A New Chapter Under Iraola
The 28-year-old forward views the arrival of new manager Andoni Iraola as a potential fresh start. Iraola was appointed in June after Arne Slot‘s dismissal. Chiesa acknowledged that he has experienced numerous “fresh starts” but remains focused on doing his best for the new manager. He also mentioned his efforts to perform well under the previous manager, Arne Slot.
Chiesa reflected on his previous season, stating he felt prepared for a more significant role but understood that playing time depended on the coach’s decisions and game plans. He clarified that he has no complaints regarding those decisions, viewing them as part of football. The forward hopes this season marks a new chapter with the change in management, requiring his full focus.
During his time under Arne Slot, Chiesa made 36 appearances last season, with only five of those being starts. His single Premier League start occurred despite the team facing attacking challenges due to injuries to players like Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitiké. His last start before the recent friendly was in the FA Cup fourth-round victory against Brighton on 14 February.
Chiesa confirmed that his discussions with Iraola have primarily revolved around tactical aspects, such as pressing. He noted that Iraola positioned him as a striker against Sunderland, indicating the manager’s preference for him in that role. Despite links to a return to Italy, with former club Juventus and Como reportedly interested, Chiesa’s priority is to prove himself to the current head coach.
Ambitions for Club and Country
Beyond his personal aspirations at Liverpool, Chiesa also articulated his ambitions for the club’s performance. He stated that Liverpool deserves more, recalling their status as Premier League champions two years prior. He highlighted that last season, the team narrowly secured Champions League qualification on the final day, which he considered fortunate given they were battling for fifth place.
Chiesa stressed the need for improvement in the upcoming season, both in the Champions League, where Liverpool exited against PSG, and in the Premier League. He aims for the team to progress further in the European competition and achieve better results domestically. He also expressed his desire to regain his place in the Italy national team, having missed out on several squads recently.
The forward mentioned that he had conversations with former national team manager Gattuso, acknowledging that he was not physically ready at certain times. He also noted an injury setback in March. Chiesa looks forward to representing his country again, having previously won the European Championship with the national team. Italy is currently seeking a new head coach after failing to qualify for the World Cup under Gennaro Gattuso.
Chiesa’s focus remains squarely on his current club, as he stated, “At the minute, the only thing I am thinking about is Liverpool.”
Source: bbc.com
Priya Nair
Sports Reporter
