Liverpool’s Forward Options Strengthened, but Chiesa Faces Uncertain Role
Liverpool bolstered their attacking lineup this summer with the signings of Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike. However, their arrival has pushed Federico Chiesa down the pecking order. Despite scoring the winning goal against Bournemouth at Anfield earlier this season, Chiesa’s long-term role under new manager Arne Slot appears unclear.
Chiesa Omitted from Champions League and Italy Squads
Chiesa has already played more minutes in the opening four Premier League matches than he did in large stretches last season, yet he was left out of Liverpool’s Champions League squad for the group stage.
Italy head coach Gennaro Gattuso has now commented on why the 27-year-old was also excluded from the national team. Speaking at a press conference—quotes relayed by CBS journalist Marco Messina—Gattuso explained:
> “I’ll say it again, we wanted to call him up, but I saw someone who wasn’t 100% sure. For me, you need to be fully motivated to play in matches like these.
He made it clear he didn’t feel ready and wanted to focus on improving a few things.”
This reflects Slot’s current approach, using Chiesa more as a bench option while giving starts to newcomers Isak and Ekitike.
Chiesa at a Turning Point in His Liverpool Career
Injuries have hampered Chiesa in recent seasons, and both Gattuso and Slot seem cautious about relying on him for the demanding schedule of top-level football.
Liverpool’s significant investment—over £240 million on players like Isak and Florian Wirtz—has further limited Chiesa’s chances of being a regular starter.
Despite speculation of a summer exit, Chiesa remained at Anfield, signaling a mutual desire between player and club for him to stay. For now, it seems his focus will be on regaining peak fitness and contributing in Premier League and domestic cup fixtures, while missing out on the marquee European matches.
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