Federico Chiesa has once again displayed impressive resilience as he prepares to play again under a new head coach in Andoni Iraola.
The Italian is getting ready to play under a third Liverpool boss in as many years, despite never really getting the chance to shine at Anfield.
He joined the club at the start of Jurgen Klopp’s final season in 2024/25, before he endured a torrid time under Arne Slot. Now, with Iraola set to lead a new era at the club, the former Juventus star has committed himself to earning his spot under the Spaniard.
Chiesa might not be the same player that won EURO 2020 for Italy, but he remains a top player with an even better mindset.
“Right now, at the moment, I am happy here at Liverpool,” Chiesa said on tour with Liverpool. “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. At the minute, the only thing I am thinking about is Liverpool. I don’t know, it is difficult to say [if this is a fresh start]. It is always a fresh start at the beginning of the year.
“Maybe there have been too many fresh starts. But I don’t care, I am trying to do my best for this new manager.”
Chiesa is the quintessential Liverpool player
Perhaps Chiesa isn’t the most illustrious talent at Liverpool, but nobody can dispute his work ethic and character. In many ways, he reminds me of Dirk Kuyt.
The Dutch former Liverpool star was often accused of not being good enough for Liverpool, but he ran his socks off every week for Liverpool, and despite often playing second fiddle to more talented players, he was always ready to step up and do a job for the club.
Chiesa is no different. Many other players would have called it quits when Klopp left – he stayed. He could have done the same when Slot was sacked after enduring insults from the Dutchman – he stayed.
It would be so pleasing to see his loyalty and steadfastness rewarded with a wonderful season on a personal note.
Chiesa’s four-year Liverpool contract is worth £150,000 per week, and given he is 28, it’s unlikely he receives another one but hopefully he can make the most of the remaining two years left on his deal.
Michael first started supporting Liverpool after Istanbul in 2006. He has since followed the Reds with passion and curiosity, founding Rousing the Kop, Anfield Central while briefly co-owning Anfield Watch. Michael lives in Cape Town, South Africa.