Liverpool ‘make final Federico Chiesa decision’ as transfer speculation abruptly ends
Federico Chiesa could still prove to be an important player for Liverpool this season after manager Arne Slot’s comments.
Football Insider exclusively revealed in June that Liverpool would accept an offer of £10million for Chiesa following a tough first season on Merseyside.
The Italian though came off the bench to score against Bournemouth, with Jamie Carragher even questioning the substitution to bring Chiesa on for Florian Wirtz with the match at 2-2.
Wirtz was signed for £100m from Bayer Leverkusen, but it was Chiesa who made the biggest impact which could change his fortunes at Liverpool.
Slot issues Chiesa transfer update
According to the Liverpool Echo [16 August], Chiesa “could still have a future at Liverpool,” with manager Arne Slot commenting on the Italian’s future after their game against Bournemouth.
Slot said he has “no reason to believe” that Chiesa’s future will change at Anfield despite rumours linking the 27-year-old back to Italy.
Chiesa had a limited impact in his first season at Liverpool, and will need to prove his worth in his second campaign at the club as the Reds look to defend their Premier League title.
| Appearances | 14 |
| Goals | 2 |
| Assists | 2 |
Chiesa given opportunity amid Slot decision
Football Insider Verdict
It was a show of confidence in Chiesa that Slot turned to him rather than bring 22-year-old Harvey Elliott off the bench.
With the match poised at 2-2 and Liverpool needing a late goal, few would have expected Chiesa to turn out to be the match winner.
Following the sale of Luis Diaz, and the potential departure of Elliott, Chiesa could prove to be a key squad member this season.
Chiesa’s ability has been proven at Juventus and Fiorentina in Serie A in the past, and he had looked to be returning to Italy.
Slot will be expecting greater impact this season, though will hope that his first Premier League goal and a moment in-front of the Kop will lift the pressure off Chiesa’ shoulders to impress.
The Dutch manager will again be requiring all of his squad to contribute should they want to retain their league crown and progress in the Champions League, as he desires.
Liverpool face Newcastle next and Chiesa may again need to make an impact off the bench, in what will be another early test of their title credentials.