Federico Chiesa is frequently linked with a return to Serie A by the Italian media, but according to Arne Slot, the 27-year-old winger definitely still has a future at Liverpool.
Federico Chiesa was Arne Slot’s only major signing in the summer transfer window, a move that initially generated a wave of optimism among Liverpool fans.
The Italian winger, known for his explosive pace, dribbling ability, and fearless approach in one-on-one situations, arrived from Juventus with the profile of a player ready to thrive in the Premier League. However, what was expected to be a breakout season at Anfield turned into a year of frustration and missed opportunities.
Chiesa’s struggles began almost immediately after his arrival. He joined Liverpool with a noticeable fitness deficit, having missed key parts of pre-season with Juventus and carrying lingering physical issues from the previous campaign. The intensity and physical demands of English football proved challenging to adapt to, and the 27-year-old found himself constantly playing catch-up. While other players settled into Arne Slot’s high-pressing system, Chiesa spent most of his time working on fitness behind the scenes, often excluded from matchday squads altogether.
As a result, his contributions on the pitch were minimal. In the Premier League, he was limited to a total of just 41 minutes, a surprising figure given the expectations that accompanied his signing. In the Champions League, his only start came in the group stage against PSV a game in which Liverpool had already qualified for the next round. While he showed glimpses of his quality in that appearance, it wasn’t enough to alter his status in the squad hierarchy.
Chiesa’s lack of involvement has inevitably led to speculation about his future. Reports from Italy have grown louder in recent weeks, with La Gazzetta dello Sport claiming on Saturday that AC Milan is seriously considering a move for the winger this summer. The Rossoneri are said to be in search of attacking reinforcements, and Chiesa despite his difficult season in England remains a player of high value in Serie A, both in terms of talent and commercial appeal.
Ahead of Liverpool’s final Premier League match of the season, against Brighton & Hove Albion on Monday, May 19 at 21:00, Arne Slot was asked about Chiesa’s situation in his pre-match press conference. Rather than dismissing the rumours outright, Slot offered a thoughtful and measured response, reaffirming his belief in the player while also shedding light on the decisions that kept him out of the team.
“He definitely still has a future here, just like everyone who plays for us,” Slot stated. “If he comes back fit next season and I can give him minutes during pre-season, he can build up his condition and take the next step.”
Slot also acknowledged that Chiesa’s lack of minutes was not necessarily a reflection of his ability, but rather a combination of circumstance and fierce internal competition. “Given his qualities, he definitely deserves more minutes, but unfortunately for him, his main competitor is Mo Salah. And on the left, it’s Cody Gakpo and Luis Díaz three players who have had an outstanding season,” the Dutch manager explained. “He wasn’t as fit as the others for a long time, which didn’t help. After that, the others performed so well that there was no reason to make changes. Is he good enough? Yes, but Lucho, Cody, and Mo earned my trust.”
Indeed, Chiesa’s unfortunate timing couldn’t have been worse. While he was regaining fitness, Liverpool’s front three clicked into top form. Mohamed Salah, once again, delivered a season full of goals and assists. Luis Díaz brought energy and creativity on the left, while Gakpo continued to develop into a complete attacking threat, capable of playing across multiple positions. In such a competitive environment, even a player of Chiesa’s calibre struggled to break through.
The upcoming Brighton fixture may offer Chiesa one final opportunity this season to step onto the pitch and remind everyone of his talent. Whether Slot gives him that chance remains to be seen, but the manager’s comments suggest the door is not closed. For now, Liverpool appears to be betting on a reset a fresh start next season, with a fully fit Chiesa taking part in pre-season preparations, something he missed the first time around.
Liverpool fans may feel they’ve yet to see the real Federico Chiesa in a red shirt, but there is still optimism that his story at Anfield isn’t over. With his skillset and experience at the highest level, including being a key figure in Italy’s Euro 2021 triumph, there’s reason to believe he can still make a significant impact if he’s given the right platform and, crucially, if he can remain physically fit.
As the curtain falls on the 2024/25 season, Chiesa’s future remains a topic of discussion. Will he be part of Slot’s long-term project at Liverpool, or will he return to the familiar grounds of Serie A? For now, at least, Slot is giving him the benefit of the doubt and perhaps, one more chance.
