Federico Chiesa, a 27-year-old winger, joined Liverpool from Juventus in the summer of 2024 for a transfer fee of approximately 12 million euros. Previously a key figure for Italy, he shone at Euro 2020 and Euro 2024. However, his debut season in the Premier League has been underwhelming. Chiesa has appeared in only 14 matches across all competitions, scoring two goals and providing two assists, hampered by injuries and struggles to adapt to the high-intensity English game under manager Arne Slot.
Gattuso, recently appointed as Italy’s coach, highlighted Chiesa’s lack of minutes at Liverpool as the primary reason for his absence from the national team since Euro 2024. This contrasts with his time at Juventus, where he scored 10 goals in 37 appearances in the 2023/2024 season despite recurring injuries.
Gattuso emphasized that Chiesa must play regularly to be considered for Italy’s squad. “Our door is always open to him, but Fede must play regularly next season,” Gattuso stated in a recent interview. He noted that Chiesa’s reserve status at Liverpool puts him at a disadvantage compared to other Italian wingers, such as Mattia Zaccagni, who perform consistently at their clubs.
Chiesa is reportedly frustrated with his situation at Liverpool. According to Fabrizio Romano, he prioritizes a return to Italy, with Napoli emerging as a potential destination. Initial contacts have been made between Napoli and Chiesa’s representatives to discuss a possible summer 2025 transfer. Additionally, AC Milan, coached by Massimiliano Allegri, is an appealing option, given Allegri’s success in maximizing Chiesa’s potential at Juventus.
Chiesa’s limited playing time at Liverpool not only jeopardizes his national team prospects but also impacts his market value, currently estimated at around 30 million euros by Transfermarkt, down from a peak of 60 million euros in 2021. His struggles to adapt to the Premier League’s physical demands and a history of persistent injuries are key factors. A potential move to Serie A, particularly to Napoli or AC Milan, could revive his career, as he is more accustomed to the Italian style of play.
Posts on X reflect divided fan sentiments. Some support Chiesa’s return to Italy to salvage his career, while others lament his move to Liverpool as a misstep from the outset.
Chiesa faces a critical decision ahead of the summer 2025 transfer window. Liverpool, fresh off their 2024/2025 Premier League title, may overhaul their attacking line, with rumors of departures for Darwin Nunez, Luis Diaz, and Diogo Jota potentially opening up more playing time. However, Arne Slot has not guaranteed Chiesa a starting role, and Premier League rules require at least five appearances for a winner’s medal, a threshold Chiesa has only met four times (33 minutes).
Conversely, a move to Napoli or AC Milan offers guaranteed minutes but at the cost of stepping down from a club of Liverpool’s stature. With the 2026 World Cup looming, Chiesa must weigh staying at Anfield to prove himself against returning to Serie A to secure his national team spot.
Gattuso expressed admiration for Chiesa’s playing style but stressed that club performance dictates call-ups. “Chiesa must play more if he wants to return to our team. It’s crucial for him,” he said. Meanwhile, former Italy striker Antonio Cassano criticized Liverpool for failing to utilize Chiesa’s talent, calling him Italy’s “most gifted” player.
Analysts suggest a move to Napoli, who are chasing the Serie A title under Antonio Conte, could be ideal for Chiesa. With Liverpool potentially signing Florian Wirtz, competition in The Reds’ attacking line will intensify, further pushing Chiesa toward a new club.
For comprehensive coverage of the summer transfer window and Italy national team developments, visit SPORTRIK. Stay informed on Federico Chiesa’s journey toward the 2026 World Cup.
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