Rising from Challenges at Liverpool
Federico Chiesa, the Italian forward who joined Liverpool from Juventus in the summer of 2024, has faced a rocky start to his career on Merseyside. After four seasons with Juventus, where he made a significant impact, Chiesa arrived with high expectations but limited game time. Reports indicate that in his initial season, he played only 18 minutes in the Premier League, 1 minute in the Champions League, and 104 minutes in the Carabao Cup, highlighting the struggle to secure a consistent spot in the lineup under manager Arne Slot.
Despite these challenges, Chiesa has expressed a fierce determination to turn things around. In a recent statement, he emphasized his resolve, saying, 'This season is different,' reflecting on the frustration of a bit-part role and missing out on key squad selections like the Champions League roster earlier this year. His limited minutes have been a source of disappointment, but they’ve also fueled his drive to prove his worth amidst competition from players like Mo Salah, Hugo Ekitike, and Alexander Isak.
Recent Performances Spark Hope
A turning point for Chiesa came during Liverpool’s midweek Carabao Cup match against Southampton, where he delivered a standout performance. In the 2-1 victory, he provided assists for both goals scored by Ekitike and Isak, earning man-of-the-match honors. Posts on X have highlighted his impact, noting stats such as creating four big chances, completing two out of four dribbles, and winning five out of eight ground duels in that game, showcasing his potential to be a game-changer for the Reds.
Chiesa’s contributions haven’t gone unnoticed by fans and analysts alike. His recent form also includes a vital 88th-minute goal against Bournemouth earlier in the season, marking his first Premier League goal for Liverpool and securing a dramatic late win. Additionally, he played a role in a winning goal against Newcastle, further building momentum. With only 137 minutes played this season, he’s already notched three goal contributions, averaging one every 46 minutes—a promising sign of what’s to come if given more opportunities.
Another boost for Chiesa is his clearance to participate in Champions League action following a recovery period. This development enhances Liverpool’s squad depth and offers him a platform to showcase his pace and technical skills on a larger stage. As one source noted, his return to such competitions is significant given his impressive performances in previous European campaigns with Juventus and Italy.
Looking Ahead: Proving His Worth
With upcoming fixtures like the match against Crystal Palace, Chiesa has a golden opportunity to cement his place in Arne Slot’s plans. His recent displays suggest he’s ready to seize any chance, as posts on social media platforms reflect growing optimism among supporters about 'season two' of his Liverpool career. The forward’s determination to contribute more often is evident, with his physical condition reportedly much improved, giving him confidence to compete at the highest level.
The road ahead won’t be easy, as Chiesa remains behind established stars in the pecking order. However, his ability to create chances—evidenced by his 99th percentile ranking for shot-creating actions and crosses into the box—could make him an invaluable asset for Liverpool. As he continues to adapt to the Premier League’s intensity, the Italian winger’s journey at Anfield is one to watch, with fans hopeful that his early struggles will soon be a distant memory.