This Liverpool Star is ‘Completely Different’ This Season According to Arne Slot | OneFootball

Federico Chiesa Ready for Bigger Stage Under Arne Slot

Federico Chiesa arrived at Liverpool with high expectations and the aura of a player who had shone brightly during Euro 2020. Yet his debut campaign was far from smooth. A mixture of injuries and limited opportunities left the Italian on the fringes of the squad. Now, as Liverpool embark on this next chapter under Arne Slot, the narrative surrounding Chiesa appears to be changing.

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Strong Backing From Arne Slot

There was no shortage of speculation about Chiesa’s future earlier this summer. With Luis Díaz and Darwin Núñez moving on, questions emerged about Liverpool’s attacking depth and whether the former Juventus winger would fit into Slot’s plans. The manager’s latest comments suggest the Italian is very much in his thoughts.

“If he’s more available, then he already has more chances to impact our results or his playing time,” said Slot before the clash with Newcastle.

“So yeah, but then it’s about him staying as fit as he is in the moment. I see a totally different Federico now than through large parts of last season.

“Which is completely normal, because he missed out on the whole pre-season and then came into a Premier League rhythm in terms of amount of games and in terms of intensity.

“He’s in a much better place now and, as we can all see, when we needed a goal and I looked to the bench, I only had him and Rio, a 16-year-old, as attacking options.

“For me, although Rio did really well in pre-season, it was quite a normal choice to make to bring [Chiesa] in and he delivered.”

Those words underline a renewed confidence in Chiesa, whose determination to make an impact could prove vital this season.

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Increased Opportunities in a Competitive Squad

Slot’s preferred attacking trio is expected to feature Mohamed Salah, Hugo Ekitike and Cody Gakpo. However, the lack of depth in forward positions provides an opening for Chiesa. His adaptability means he can operate across the front line, even stepping in as a number nine if required.

His debut Premier League goal against Bournemouth may have come later than anticipated, but it offered a glimpse of his quality. Liverpool invested around £12.5 million in the 27-year-old, and while the first season fell below expectations, the current campaign presents a chance for redemption.

Rediscovering Confidence and Fitness

Injuries blighted Chiesa’s early days at Anfield, just as they disrupted his final months at Juventus. Now, after a full season under his belt, he appears stronger, sharper and more attuned to Slot’s high-intensity style. The manager’s focus on fitness and tactical cohesion could play to Chiesa’s strengths.

If Liverpool fail to secure another forward before the window closes, Chiesa becomes an essential squad figure. His pace, technique and ability to deliver in big moments were evident when Italy triumphed at Euro 2020. Reproducing that level in the Premier League would elevate his status from cult hero to key contributor.

Why Chiesa Matters to Liverpool’s Season

Liverpool’s ambitions this season hinge on depth as much as quality. Slot knows that fixture congestion, injuries and rotation will test every player. Chiesa’s versatility and experience make him a valuable asset, especially in a side blending established stars with emerging talents.

For a player once on the periphery, the path ahead is clear. Stay fit, seize opportunities and deliver when called upon. If Chiesa can do that, Liverpool’s faith in him will be rewarded, and his story could become one of revival and resurgence under Arne Slot.