Federico Chiesa’s Path to Redemption: Why He Chose Liverpool Over Italy | OneFootball

Federico Chiesa’s Liverpool Journey: Risk or Reward?

Liverpool’s decision to sign Federico Chiesa during the summer transfer window is one that has already sparked much conversation. At $16 million, his fee represents a calculated gamble for the Reds, who are hoping Chiesa can stay fit and rediscover the form that made him a star in Italy. After being sidelined with injuries and declining to join Italy for their Nations League matches, Chiesa’s decision to focus on club football, especially at Liverpool, is one that could make or break his career. But is this gamble going to pay off for both the player and the club?

Chiesa’s Decision to Focus on Liverpool

One of the major talking points surrounding Chiesa is his decision to skip international duty and prioritise his fitness with Liverpool, report Liverpool.com. Italy’s national team coach, Luciano Spalletti, confirmed that Chiesa chose to remain in England. “Chiesa and I spoke and made a fair assessment,” Spalletti explained. “I would have brought him as an extra player, not participating in the games.”

The forward, who hasn’t played since Italy was eliminated from Euro 2024, was upfront about his intentions, stating his need for focused preparation work with his new club. Chiesa’s absence from the national side can only be seen as a positive for Liverpool fans, as it suggests that the 26-year-old is determined to make his mark at Anfield. His emotional reaction to seeing his name on the back of the Liverpool jersey for the first time is indicative of his commitment to the club and the supporters.

A Special Preseason: Chiesa’s Road to Recovery

Chiesa hasn’t kicked a ball in a competitive match since the summer, and although the new season has begun, he’s still working towards match fitness. Liverpool have been patient, providing Chiesa with a specialised preseason that is tailored to get him ready for selection. Head coach Arne Slot is managing expectations carefully. “He’s going to train with us today but it’s a bigger chance that he is not in the squad for Sunday than he is,” Slot commented ahead of Liverpool’s clash with Manchester United, which they won 3-0.

This careful management of Chiesa’s return is exactly what the Italian needs after years of injury frustration. He hasn’t been the same player since his ACL injury in 2022, but he still managed to appear in 33 league games for Juventus last season, which should give fans hope that his fitness woes are behind him.

A Calculated Risk with Big Potential Rewards

There’s no doubt that Liverpool’s acquisition of Chiesa was a shrewd move financially. The $16 million fee was fully covered by the windfall the Reds received from the Dominic Solanke transfer to Tottenham Hotspur. Given that Solanke’s departure from Bournemouth triggered a lucrative sell-on clause for Liverpool, the club had the funds to take a chance on Chiesa.

While Chiesa’s injury record raises concerns, his undeniable talent makes this a risk worth taking. If Liverpool can get him back to full fitness, they will have secured a top-class player for a fraction of his true market value.

Future Hopes for Federico Chiesa at Liverpool

Chiesa’s injury struggles are well documented, but his desire to succeed at Liverpool will undoubtedly endear him to the fans. His ability to play as a winger or forward gives Slot tactical flexibility, and if he can stay fit, he will be a vital asset in Liverpool’s attacking unit. Supporters are eagerly awaiting his competitive debut, and Chiesa’s decision to focus solely on Liverpool this season suggests that he’s ready to put the hard work in.

At only 26, Chiesa still has time to reclaim the form that made him one of Europe’s most exciting talents just a few years ago. For now, all eyes are on his fitness and whether his body can hold up to the rigours of the Premier League.

Our View: Anfield Index Analysis

As excited Liverpool fans, we’re cautiously optimistic about Chiesa’s arrival. On one hand, the $16 million price tag seems like a steal for a player of his calibre, and it’s rare to see a player so dedicated to getting back to full fitness. His decision to skip Italy’s Nations League matches and focus on his Liverpool career speaks volumes about his commitment. However, the scepticism remains. Chiesa hasn’t been the same player since his ACL injury in 2022, and while he managed to make 33 appearances last season, there’s always a worry that his knee problems could resurface.

Head coach Arne Slot’s careful handling of Chiesa’s return to action is reassuring, but fans are eager to see him back on the pitch. It’s hard to gauge exactly when Chiesa will be ready to make an impact, but one thing is clear: his desire to be a success at Anfield is not in question. If he can stay fit and Slot can integrate him into Liverpool’s high-tempo system, the Reds might have pulled off one of the bargains of the summer. But, if injuries persist, fans may look back at this deal with disappointment, wondering what could have been.

Either way, it’s a signing that carries risk—but it’s one we’re willing to take.

Statistical Analysis by EPL Index

Federico Chiesa’s Performance Data: Key Insights

Federico Chiesa’s statistics over the last 365 days, visualised through the data from Fbref, paint a complex picture of a player recovering from injury but still contributing significantly across various aspects of the game. With 1,967 minutes under his belt, Chiesa’s performances showcase areas of excellence and areas of potential improvement, especially as he transitions into a pivotal role at Liverpool.

Chiesa’s Attacking Metrics

Chiesa’s standout attacking contributions are immediately apparent. His shot-creating actions place him in the 99th percentile compared to forwards, showcasing his ability to drive attacks and create opportunities. His expected assisted goals (xAG) and expected non-penalty goals (npxG) are also solid, ranked at 94 and 50 respectively, indicating a forward who still poses a goal threat despite injury setbacks.

The assist metric (35th percentile) suggests that while he isn’t the primary playmaker, his contributions in buildup play are notable. However, Chiesa’s actual non-penalty goals rank low, in the 1st percentile, pointing to a gap between his underlying numbers and tangible output in terms of goals scored. This gap may be attributed to lingering injury issues or tactical shifts at Juventus, but Liverpool will look to address this aspect of his game.

Possession and Defensive Data

Chiesa’s ability to progress the ball is another major asset, with progressive carries and passes received ranking in the 97th and 92nd percentiles. His success rate in take-ons (86th percentile) highlights his dribbling ability, an essential trait for breaking through defensive lines. However, defensively, his contribution is limited. He ranks only in the 71st percentile for tackles and interceptions and 71st for clearances, suggesting he won’t be a defensive force but rather a dynamic option going forward.

Overall, Federico Chiesa’s data, as provided by Fbref, presents a player with significant attacking potential but some concerns about final product and defensive contributions. His role at Liverpool will likely build on his strong ball progression, while ensuring his fitness allows him to fully capitalise on his attacking skills.