Federico Chiesa is looking to make a fresh impact at Liverpool following the appointment of new head coach Andoni Iraola.
After struggling for regular opportunities under former manager Arne Slot, Chiesa has made clear his commitment to Liverpool. Despite injuries and fierce competition for places, the 28-year-old reaffirmed his intention to fight for his place under Iraola rather than seek a move, despite recent links with a return to Serie A.
Chiesa joined Liverpool from Juventus having built a reputation as one of Italy’s most exciting attacking talents. However, injuries, fierce competition for places, and a lack of consistent starts prevented him from making the impact many anticipated during his first two seasons on Merseyside. Despite featuring regularly from the bench, the Italy international found starts difficult to come by and admitted the previous campaign was a frustrating one on a personal level.
Rather than dwell on disappointment, he views Iraola’s appointment as a chance to reset and fight for his place at Anfield. The signs have already been encouraging during pre-season. Chiesa found the net in Liverpool’s friendly victory over Sunderland, delivering an eye-catching display that could strengthen his case for increased involvement when the new campaign begins.
One of the most intriguing developments has been Iraola’s apparent willingness to use Chiesa in a more central attacking role instead of exclusively on the wing.
Chiesa still hoping to salvage Liverpool future
Chiesa has made clear that he is not thinking about leaving Liverpool. Instead, he wants to justify Liverpool’s investment in him and the supporters’ faith, believing he still has plenty to offer in the Premier League.
“The only conversations I had were about pressing and tactics,” said Chiesa via Sky Sports after the game in Nashville.
“So I don’t know, it is difficult to say. It is always a fresh start at the beginning of the year. Maybe there have been too many fresh starts. But I don’t care, I am trying to do my best for this new manager. Last season under Arne Slot, I was trying to do my best.
“Right now, at the moment, I am happy here at Liverpool. I love the club, I love the fans, I love everything. I am doing the best I can to have a chance here. And then we will see. At the minute, the only thing I am thinking about is Liverpool.”
With Iraola signalling his intention to deploy Chiesa in a more central attacking role, the coming campaign offers the Italian international his best opportunity yet to repay Liverpool’s investment. He also hopes consistent performances for Liverpool will help him force his way back into the Italy national team setup, having previously stepped away from international duty to rebuild his fitness.
