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Liverpool are set for a busy summer transfer window, with several key players’ futures hanging in the balance. While speculation continues around Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold, a new name has emerged as a likely departure: Federico Chiesa. According to Calciomercato.com, the Italian winger is expected to leave Anfield after a difficult season, with a return to Serie A looking like the most probable outcome.
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Chiesa’s Struggles at Liverpool
Chiesa arrived at Liverpool last summer with high expectations, but his tenure has been anything but successful. His integration into the squad was hindered by fitness concerns, with Calciomercato.com noting that his lack of pre-season preparation left him struggling for match sharpness.
Although he has now returned to full fitness, his playing time has remained limited. This season, Chiesa has managed just 371 minutes of first-team football, contributing one goal and two assists. Given Liverpool’s attacking depth and his inability to secure a regular place in Arne Slot’s system, his departure seems increasingly likely.
Serie A Clubs on Alert
A move back to Italy appears to be the most viable option for Chiesa, with several Serie A clubs reportedly interested in his signature. As Calciomercato.com reports, “Chiesa’s future, as of today, is increasingly far from England.”
Napoli and Atalanta were both linked with a January move, but neither club followed through with a formal bid. However, with Liverpool now open to selling, the Italian clubs could reignite their interest. Inter Milan are also monitoring the situation, though finances may prove a stumbling block.
One major hurdle for Chiesa’s return to Serie A is his salary. Calciomercato.com highlights that “for a new adventure in Serie A, the ‘97-born player will have to make the effort to reduce his salary.” Given the financial landscape of Italian football, any club looking to secure his services will need him to accept a pay cut.
National Team Coach Criticises Chiesa’s Form
Chiesa’s struggles at Liverpool have not gone unnoticed, particularly by Italy manager Luciano Spalletti. The national team coach was blunt in his assessment, telling the Italian media: “Unfortunately, he has failed in England.”
Spalletti went further, pointing out Chiesa’s lack of game time and defensive contributions: “He has only played 25 minutes. He must be more consistent. He needs more defensive phase.”
Such comments from a national team manager are rarely encouraging, and they highlight the difficult situation Chiesa finds himself in. If he wants to remain in Italy’s plans for future international tournaments, securing regular playing time at club level will be essential.
Our View – Anfield Index Analysis
Chiesa’s impending departure would not come as a major surprise. His move to Anfield was initially met with optimism, but injuries and inconsistent performances have made it difficult for him to establish himself in the squad.
With Liverpool boasting a strong attacking lineup and younger, more dynamic options available, Chiesa was always going to struggle for minutes. The emergence of players like Luis Díaz, Cody Gakpo, and Darwin Núñez has only made his role more marginal.
His return to Serie A seems logical, but the financial implications could complicate any move. Italian clubs are not known for paying Premier League-level wages, so a significant pay cut will be necessary if Chiesa truly wants to revive his career in his homeland.
Ultimately, Liverpool need players who can make an immediate impact. Chiesa, despite his talent, has not lived up to expectations, and a fresh start might be best for both the player and the club. If a suitable offer arrives, Liverpool will likely move quickly to offload him and reinvest in areas of greater need.
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