Why Liverpool’s Chiesa Will Be Medalled Despite Just Four League Appearances | OneFootball

Federico Chiesa’s Medal Moment: More Than Just Appearances

Liverpool’s Premier League title win under Arne Slot has been celebrated as a symbol of smooth transition and sustained excellence. The Dutchman’s ability to take over from a legendary figure like Jürgen Klopp without disrupting momentum speaks volumes. Yet in the shadows of this campaign’s heroes is one intriguing subplot: Federico Chiesa, the club’s only signing last summer, will receive a winner’s medal — despite barely kicking a ball.

Minimal Minutes, Maximum Recognition

Chiesa’s arrival from Juventus for a modest £10 million was seen as shrewd business. A winger with pedigree, a European Championship winner, and someone viewed as a potential X-factor. But with just four Premier League appearances this season, his limited involvement led to speculation around his eligibility for a medal.

Such fears, however, have proven unfounded. As Liverpool.com reports, “While players who reach at least five appearances in a Premier League campaign are guaranteed a medal, Liverpool will be given more that others can collect.” That’s because of a vital detail buried in Premier League regulations.

“The champions are given 40 commemorative medals made of silver,” the rules state. “They can be distributed to the manager, players and officials, as the club see fit, as long as every player who has made at least five Premier League appearances during the title-winning season gets one.”

Chiesa, then, is expected to be among the 40. And rightly so.

Contribution Beyond the Stat Sheet

In a modern squad, especially one competing on multiple fronts, the impact of a player often extends beyond the pitch. Chiesa’s role — whether in training, tactical preparations, or supporting squad morale — carries value. Liverpool have used just 21 players in the league more than five times. That leaves space for others, including Chiesa and young keeper Viteszlav Jaros, who made a single appearance against Crystal Palace, to be rewarded.

Photo: IMAGO

Arne Slot’s approach hasn’t relied on chopping and changing. His core group has delivered week in, week out. But this is also a season where Chiesa’s presence gave Slot additional depth, should he have needed it. And in a marathon like the Premier League, availability and commitment, even without spotlight minutes, are crucial assets.

Meaningless Fixtures, Meaningful Opportunities

Now that the title is secured, remaining fixtures could become a window for players like Chiesa, Harvey Elliott and Wataru Endo to receive more time on the pitch. While medals have been assured, match rhythm remains a currency players value. For Chiesa, more appearances would help validate his status as a contributor in the eyes of the public, even if the club already sees him as such.

In a campaign where Liverpool balanced transition, injuries, and fierce competition, every member of the squad played their part — directly or indirectly. And for Chiesa, a medal may well symbolise resilience and patience, rather than just performance.

As Liverpool.com rightly reminds us, these honours are not strictly statistical. They’re symbolic. “They can be distributed… as the club see fit.” This one, for Chiesa, feels both deserved and dignified.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool fan’s perspective, the decision to award Federico Chiesa a medal despite his limited game time reflects everything that has made this club successful under Slot and previously under Klopp — unity, respect, and belief in the entire squad.

It’s easy to get caught up in appearances and goals, but modern football is built on more than that. If you’re around the training ground, pushing your teammates, adapting to a new system, and keeping yourself ready, that’s part of being a professional. Chiesa came into a title-chasing team with intense expectations. Instead of sulking or demanding minutes, he kept his head down and stayed ready. That deserves respect.

We’ve seen players moan in the past about being rotated, or not feeling part of the group. By all accounts, Chiesa hasn’t done that. And when called upon, he’s shown flashes — not quite enough to force his way in, sure, but that doesn’t diminish his value.

Giving him a medal sends the right message: everyone matters. If we want a squad mentality that breeds success, rewarding even the quiet contributors is essential. And who knows? Chiesa might yet play a bigger role next season — his story at Anfield may still be in its early chapters.