Liverpool’s Premier League title defense began with drama, goals, and a new hero at Anfield. Federico Chiesa came off the bench to net his first league goal in front of the Kop, sealing a crucial strike in Liverpool’s 4-2 win over Bournemouth.
It was his first Premier League strike, and it could not have come at a better time.
The Reds had raced into a two-goal lead but were pegged back by Antoine Semenyo, who stunned the champions with a quick brace.
With tension rising, Arne Slot turned to Chiesa, and the Italian delivered. His finish gave Liverpool the edge before Mohamed Salah wrapped things up in stoppage time.
While the game itself was full of talking points, what Chiesa said afterwards may prove even more important for Liverpool fans.
Rumours of a summer move back to Serie A have followed him for weeks, but the forward’s comments suggested he may be staying put.
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What Federico Chiesa said after Liverpool win?
Speaking to Sky Italy after the match, Chiesa said:
“We’ll talk to Liverpool, but I’ll be honest, I’m happy here. I play for one of the best teams in the world. I have to wait and be ready like I was tonight.”
He added: “I have to prove that I can play for this team. I repeat, the manager has been very good with me in recent months.”
Manager Arne Slot also gave his backing to the Italian. “As long as he’s here, he’s definitely at Liverpool – I have no reason to believe something is going to change,” the Dutchman said.
Slot praised Chiesa for his timing and impact, noting that his late goal showed the qualities the team will need in a long season.
It seems clear Chiesa is not ready to pack his bags yet. And if his finish against Bournemouth is a sign of things to come, Liverpool fans may be seeing plenty more of him this year.
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