In what should be a moment of personal triumph, Federico Chiesa is set to lift the Premier League trophy with Liverpool next week. He will also join his teammates on an open-top bus parade through the city, celebrating a hard-fought and historic title win. On paper, this is a dream debut season in England for the Italian international. Yet, beneath the glittering silverware and the red confetti, lies a far more complex story for Chiesa.
Despite being part of a championship-winning squad, Chiesa’s actual impact on the pitch has been minimal. His debut season with Liverpool has seen him clock just 400 minutes across 13 appearances in all competitions—a figure that paints a stark picture of a player struggling to establish himself. In the Premier League alone, Chiesa has yet to start a single match. In fact, more often than not, he hasn’t even been named on the team sheet, sidelined by both tactical choices and fitness concerns.
Last Glimpses on the Pitch Amid Limited Opportunities
Chіеѕа’ѕ lаѕt glіmрѕеѕ оf Premier Lеаguе action came durіng back-to-back dеfеаtѕ аgаіnѕt Fulhаm аnd Chеlѕеа. With Liverpool’s attacking options depleted, head coach Arne Slot reluctantly turned to Chiesa from the bench. On both occasions, the Italian forward was only introduced as the fifth and final substitute, managing a mere eight minutes of action per game—hardly enough to make a meaningful impression or regain any rhythm.
The Struggles Following a Painful Recovery
One could argue that Chiesa’s struggles stem from the long road back from injury. His return was punctuated by a rare high point when he netted an emotional goal in the Carabao Cup final last March after being introduced in the 74th minute. However, that flash of brilliance was not enough to spark a renaissance in his form. The road back to peak condition has been arduous, and despite being medically cleared, Chiesa has found it difficult to shake off the rust and reclaim his place.
Liverpool’s attacking pecking order has left him languishing on the fringes. Even Darwin Núñez—despite a turbulent season where he failed to score in 24 of his 28 league appearances—continues to be preferred over Chiesa. The gap between Chiesa and Liverpool’s first-choice forwards appears to be widening, posing serious questions about his role moving forward.
Clouds Over Federico Chiesa Future Amid Transfer Rumors
Though his father, Enrico Chiesa, publicly stated last month that his son remains content at Liverpool. And is committed to honoring the three remaining years of his contract, the reality is looking increasingly grim. Liverpool is already setting the stage for another overhaul of their attacking unit. With the club reportedly initiating contact with Bayer Leverkusen’s rising star, Florian Wirtz.
Chiesa’s absence from the squad during Liverpool’s recent clash with Arsenal. That only adds fuel to the growing speculation about his future. If he remains sidelined again when Liverpool face Brighton on Monday. The writing on the wall may become impossible to ignore. The cracks in his relationship with Arne Slot and the misfit between his style and the team’s tactical system seem to be widening.
Federico Chiesa Fading Hopes, Lingering Support
Despite his peripheral role, a section of the Liverpool faithful still holds out. Hope that Chiesa might yet find his place within the team. His prolonged absence from the field has sparked frustration among fans. Many of whom believe the Italian deserves more opportunities, especially given the inconsistency of other attackers.
However, as the summer transfer window looms and Liverpool looks to reinforce its squad for another title defense. Chiesa’s future at Anfield remains in doubt. His time in Liverpool may culminate in a Premier League medal and celebratory parade. But unless something changes drastically, it risks being a hollow triumph. A title won more from the sidelines than the pitch.
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