New Italy boss Gennaro Gattuso has told Federico Chiesa he needs to play more if he’s to work his way back into the international fold.
Chiesa is being linked with a move away from Liverpool this summer, less than 12 months since he joined the Reds from Juventus. Since arriving at Anfield, the 27-year-old has struggled to make any sort of impact.
He made just 14 appearances across all competitions in the 2024/25 campaign, including just four starts, with Arne Slot seemingly reluctant to give him a run in the side amid concerns over his fitness after arriving late on in the summer.
Chiesa has faced several calls to leave Liverpool this summer in order to gain more playing time, with former Italy boss Luciano Spalletti having suggested he should move back to his homeland.
A switch to Serie A has been touted, with Chiesa having been linked with a move to Napoli alongside Darwin Nunez.
And now Gattuso, who has been appointed as Spalletti’s successor this week, has renewed calls for Chiesa to find more game time, having spoken to the Liverpool star upon taking the job.
New Italy boss Gennaro Gattuso speaking during his first press conference
New Italy boss Gennaro Gattuso speaking during his first press conference (Image: Getty Images)
Discussing which players could come into his thinking, Gattuso said at his first press conference: "Let's see what the league says, in these days I called 30 or 35 players and I had a chat with all of them.
“There are players who have been out at the moment because they have very specific characteristics and can give a hand but you have to let the green rectangle speak and when it says that things have been done well the doors of the national team are open.
“To Chiesa for example I said this, that he must find a way to play with continuity, and this applies to everyone."
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Fabrizio Romano has suggested Chiesa may have taken Gattuso’s warning on board, and claimed he is looking to leave Liverpool this summer.
Chiesa though has suggested he would be happy to stay put at Anfield, although he hasn’t ruled out a return to Italy at some point.
"The year is over, but it's an experience I would do again,” he said earlier this month.
“Soon, I will sit down at the table with the club, [agent] Fali [Ramadani] and my family to find the best solution. I wouldn't mind staying in Liverpool at all."
Liverpool.com says: It is a tricky one for Liverpool and Chiesa this summer. There have been a few flashes of brilliance, but not many, and there is obviously a reason why Slot has decided against picking him so often. If a decent offer comes along, the Reds will no doubt consider it.