Chiesa Reflects on Liverpool Journey: “I saw the trophies and thought, I want that” | OneFootball

Federico Chiesa: The Next Chapter at Anfield

Liverpool’s summer transfer business has seen the arrival of Federico Chiesa, a man with immense pedigree and a reputation for performing on the biggest stages. Fresh from Juventus and after having lit up Serie A and the international scene, Chiesa’s move to Anfield has brought with it a wave of excitement, anticipation, and hope. In a recent interview with Walk On magazine, Chiesa shared his journey, the challenges he faced, and what he hopes to achieve in the famous red shirt.

From Milan’s San Siro to Liverpool’s iconic Kop, Chiesa’s career trajectory has been nothing short of meteoric. The Italian international has faced both adversity and triumph, and his arrival at Liverpool signifies a new chapter — not just for him, but for the Reds, who are hungry for more success under Arne Slot.

Overcoming Challenges: A Rough Start at San Siro

It wasn’t all smooth sailing for Chiesa, who didn’t exactly receive a hero’s welcome on his Liverpool debut. Entering the pitch against AC Milan in the UEFA Champions League, boos from the Milan faithful echoed around the San Siro. It’s worth remembering that back in January 2021, Chiesa, playing for Juventus, handed Milan their first league defeat of the season, a moment that undoubtedly lingered in the minds of Rossoneri supporters.

Despite the hostile reception, Chiesa shrugged off the jeers and remained composed. He understood that this was part and parcel of being a professional footballer, especially when crossing enemy lines. Reflecting on this, he told Walk On, “It wasn’t certainly the warmest of welcomes, but I knew what was at stake and what I had to deliver. Football isn’t about comfort, it’s about resilience.”

Such resilience has been a hallmark of Chiesa’s career. From his breakthrough at ACF Fiorentina to his rise at Juventus, he has always faced challenges head-on. Liverpool fans will undoubtedly hope that this strength of character will help him thrive in the Premier League, where the pressure and pace of the game are relentless.

Photo by IMAGO

Finding Comfort in the No.14 Shirt

One thing that has brought Chiesa comfort amidst the transition to life on Merseyside is the number 14 shirt — a number he has proudly worn for Italy. “It’s the number I’ve been wearing with the national team,” Chiesa explained to Walk On. “When I saw Liverpool sent me a video showing clips of my best goals and at the end, there was me wearing the No.14, it felt destined.”

The iconic shirt may hold a sentimental value, but for Chiesa, it’s also a symbol of what he aims to achieve at Anfield. Liverpool is a club that thrives on tradition and history, and players are expected to live up to the weight of the jersey they wear. Chiesa knows this well. “When I joined, I saw the history, I saw the trophies,” he said. “I want to win here, I want to add to that history.”

His confidence is palpable, yet he is also pragmatic. Chiesa knows he has stiff competition for places at Liverpool, especially with the likes of Luis Díaz, Cody Gakpo, and Diogo Jota already battling it out for a starting spot. “I know what I’m capable of,” he stated, “but I also know that in front of me are players who have already shown their quality.”

Versatile Weapon for Slot

Federico Chiesa’s arrival gives Arne Slot, Liverpool’s new manager, a versatile weapon in the squad. While traditionally playing as a left-winger, Chiesa has demonstrated his ability to operate across the front line. His blistering pace, combined with his intelligence in movement and ability to cut inside and finish, makes him a nightmare for defenders. During his time at Juventus, Chiesa was used on both flanks and through the middle, something Slot will no doubt look to exploit in a long season.

Liverpool’s December schedule will see the Reds play an exhausting nine games in quick succession, making squad depth a necessity. With injuries always a threat and competitions like the Champions League demanding rotation, Chiesa’s flexibility will be invaluable.

Arne Slot spoke highly of his new signing following the 3-1 Champions League victory over AC Milan. “Federico is exactly what we needed — someone who can play across the front, who is tactically intelligent, and is hungry to succeed,” Slot said. “We’re not going to rush him, but when he’s ready, he’ll play a big part in our plans.”

With Mo Salah still commanding the right-wing position and Darwin Núñez finding his stride down the middle, Chiesa may initially have to bide his time. But his presence ensures that Liverpool remains well-stocked in attacking areas as they push for honours in both domestic and European competitions.

Photo: IMAGO

Eyes on Silverware

One of the things that drew Chiesa to Liverpool was the club’s relentless pursuit of silverware. Having been part of Juventus’ Coppa Italia-winning squad twice and helping Italy to their Euro 2020 triumph, Chiesa is no stranger to lifting trophies. Yet, the hunger for more remains.

Upon entering Liverpool’s AXA Training Centre, Chiesa was struck by the sheer number of trophies on display. “I saw the Champions League and Premier League trophies, and I thought, ‘I want that. I want to be a part of that history,’” he said.

Liverpool, with 51 major honours to their name, is a club where the pressure to win is constant. It’s not just about being competitive; it’s about being the best. For Chiesa, that means pushing himself to new heights and contributing to the team’s pursuit of more titles. His ambitions are clear: “I am here to help the team, to win trophies, and to make the fans proud.”

As the season progresses, it will be fascinating to see how Chiesa adapts to the Premier League’s rigours. His ability to thrive in high-pressure environments and his proven track record on the biggest stages suggest that he is more than capable of making an impact. For Liverpool fans, Chiesa represents not only a new face but the promise of more glory days ahead.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

We couldn’t be more thrilled about the arrival of Federico Chiesa. Not only does he bring immense talent, but he also has that big-game mentality that Liverpool thrives on. The hostile debut at San Siro only makes his resolve stronger, and with a few more minutes under his belt, the Kop will surely warm to him in no time.

Chiesa’s versatility is precisely what we’ve been needing to add extra firepower up front. In a season where every point counts and injuries can derail a campaign, having someone like Chiesa who can slot into multiple positions is a dream. Arne Slot will undoubtedly rotate, and Chiesa’s skill set ensures he’ll be part of the key moments this season.

There’s also something special about his desire to wear the No.14 shirt. It speaks of a player who is proud of his past achievements but is eager to create new memories with Liverpool. We believe he’ll become an important player for us, perhaps even in a more central role as the season progresses.

In short, we’re buzzing about this signing. Welcome to Anfield, Federico — let’s bring home some more trophies!