Liverpool star Federico Chiesa has sent a clear message to manager Andoni Iraola after two underwhelming seasons at Anfield
Andoni Iraola of Liverpool speaks with Federico Chiesa
Federico Chiesa has sent a strong message to Andoni Iraola(Image: Getty Images)
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Federico Chiesa has made it abundantly clear that he has no intention of walking away from Liverpool and insists he is ready to fight for his place at Anfield. The Italy international looked set to leave this summer, especially with the Reds actively pursuing reinforcements in attack.
But Chiesa is determined to prove he still has a role to play under new manager Andoni Iraola, insisting he is "happy" on Merseyside. "Right now, at the moment, I am happy here at Liverpool," he told reporters after scoring the third goal in the 4-2 pre-season friendly victory over Sunderland in Nashville last weekend.
"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."
Chiesa described Iraola's arrival as a "fresh start" after struggling to establish himself under predecessor Arne Slot. The winger managed just six Premier League appearances during the 2024/25 campaign and, despite making 26 appearances in the competition last season, all but one of those came as a substitute.
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"The gaffer had his game plans, he took his decisions, I have nothing to say about that," Chiesa said. "This year, let us say it is a new chapter. There is a new manager and I have to focus on that."
If Chiesa has demonstrated one thing since arriving at Liverpool, it is that he is not someone who shies away from a fight. The 28-year-old has repeatedly embraced the challenge of competing for his place and claimed earlier this year that competition only makes him better.
Federico Chiesa on the ball
Chiesa says he wants to stay and fight for his place at Liverpool(Image: Getty Images)
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"If I don't want competition, I go to another team. But I want the competition, I want to play here and I think, at the end of the day, competition helps you to become a better player," he said.
The forward, who joined Liverpool from Juventus in a £12.5million deal in August 2024, is yet to sit down with Iraola to discuss his exact role in the squad. However, early signs suggest he could once again face an uphill battle to secure regular minutes in his favoured position.
"The only conversations I've had with the coach have been about pressing and tactics," he said. "He put me striker today. I have played my whole career as a winger but I am happy to play striker as well."
Federico Chiesa watched on from the bench
Chiesa's comments tell Iraola all he needs to know about his character(Image: Getty Images)
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The departure of Mo Salah has left a significant void in Liverpool's attack and could present Chiesa with a fresh opportunity to force his way into the team. However, the Reds are expected to add another high-profile forward before the transfer deadline, with PSG's Bradley Barcola among their leading targets.
Teenage sensation Rio Ngumoha is also expected to take on a bigger role, while Alexander Isak is set to lead the line while Hugo Ekitike is sidelined through injury.
Despite the competition for places, Chiesa's mentality after two challenging years at Anfield is likely to have caught Iraola's attention. His willingness to adapt, compete and embrace the fight could yet give him a route back into Liverpool's plans.
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