Has Federico Chiesa’s Liverpool Dream Become a Distant Reality?
As Liverpool gears up for the closing stages of the season, the spotlight shines uncomfortably on Federico Chiesa, a player whose time at Anfield has been marked more by absence than presence. Despite joining the Premier League champions in a move that initially heralded excitement, the Italy international has found himself relegated to a mere spectator in a campaign rife with promise.
Chiesa, 27, has played just 400 minutes across 13 appearances this season, failing to start any Premier League matches. As head coach Arne Slot acknowledged, not due to lack of ability, but rather fierce competition with teammates like Mohamed Salah, Cody Gakpo, and Luis Díaz, who have all enjoyed outstanding seasons. "In terms of the quality he has, he would deserve more playing time at this football club," Slot remarked, highlighting the unfortunate circumstances that have kept Chiesa on the bench.
Since his arrival from Juventus, expectations were sky-high for Chiesa. He declared his excitement to join Liverpool, even asking his wife to play the club's anthem upon landing in the city. However, his dream season has curiously turned into a challenging ordeal, as he has often found himself as fifth substitute during crucial matches.
Chiesa’s plight came to a head during the FA Cup defeat against Plymouth Argyle, where he had a dismal outing, losing possession 29 times in just 90 minutes. His only contributions to the Premier League this year came as desperate attempts to shift momentum that ultimately fell short late in matches.
Despite speculation surrounding his future, including links to a return to Serie A, Chiesa's father has insisted that he remains committed to Liverpool, hoping to see out his contract, which has two years left. Yet, as Liverpool aims to strengthen its attacking options further this summer, Chiesa’s chances of making a significant impact next season appear increasingly slim.
Slot's comments indicate a recognition of Chiesa’s potential, stating that his abilities warrant more opportunity. However, with Salah's continued dominance and reliability in the squad, the likelihood of more game time for Chiesa seems bleak. "Time is running out for Chiesa" Slot had warned, given that Liverpool has only two matches left this season against Brighton and Crystal Palace.
The investment made in Chiesa, a modest €12 million deal, suggests a calculated risk on Liverpool's part, and there remains hope that this investment will bear fruit in the future. Some fans, still enamoured with Chiesa’s talents spotted during his previous club performances and during the European Championship triumph, are clamouring for more chance to rejuvenate the player's career.
As the final whistle draws closer on the season, the narrative surrounding Chiesa will continue to evolve. Will he become a key figure in Liverpool's attack moving forward? Or will he find solace in a new venture elsewhere? As celebrations loom for Liverpool’s league title, the uncertainty surrounding Chiesa’s future weighs heavily—not just on him, but on countless fans hoping to see him shine once more.
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