Federico Chiesa just scored in the first friendly under new boss Andoni Iraola, beating Sunderland 4-2 on Saturday, and insists he’s “happy here at Liverpool,” but fans know that only one Premier League start across two seasons isn’t going to cut it. This isn’t some fresh face, it’s a 28-year-old forward signed for £12.5m back in 2024, and his future in Merseyside feels as consistent as the English weather.
Two Seasons, One Start: What’s Really Going On?
Let’s be real: Chiesa’s been stuck in limbo. Since joining Liverpool from Juventus in 2024, he’s only managed a measly five goals across 50 appearances in all competitions. And the kicker? Only one of those was a Premier League start under former manager Arne Slot. That’s a brutal stat for a player of his caliber, contracted until 2028. It’s no wonder he told La Gazzetta dello Sport back in June that if he didn’t find “consistency in the Premier League, I’ll have to look elsewhere.” That’s a warning shot, pure and simple.
“Too Many Fresh Starts” For Chiesa?
Now, with Iraola taking over after Slot’s dismissal in June, Chiesa is talking a big game. He told reporters, “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.” But when asked if it’s a fresh start, his answer was telling: “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.” You can hear the frustration in that, can’t you? He’s trying his best, felt ready for a “bigger role” last season, but ultimately, the coach made the decisions. This year, it’s a “new chapter,” he says.
So, what does this “new chapter” actually mean? Chiesa says he’s focusing on the new manager, trying to do his best. But after two seasons of being largely sidelined, scoring just five times, will this be enough? Liverpool fans have to be wondering if this renewed enthusiasm is genuine or just a player trying to make the best of a tough situation. The real test begins now.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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