Chiesa’s Liverpool Future in Doubt as Napoli Eye Loan Move | OneFootball

Federico Chiesa Considering January Exit Amid Frustrations at Liverpool

Liverpool winger Federico Chiesa is reportedly seeking a move away from the club during the January transfer window, as frustrations mount over his limited opportunities under Arne Slot. According to Amos Murphy in the Express, the Italian forward, signed in the summer for a modest £12.5 million, is struggling to find his footing at Anfield.

The Euro 2020 winner’s arrival was seen as a coup for Liverpool, especially given the price tag. However, his time on Merseyside has been underwhelming so far. Injuries, competition for places, and the adaptation to Slot’s high-intensity system have all contributed to a meagre 123 minutes of game time across all competitions.

Chiesa’s Struggles and Potential Loan Move

Despite high expectations, Chiesa has featured only once in the Premier League this season, during Liverpool’s September win over Bournemouth. His limited contributions have reportedly prompted interest from Napoli, with FootMercato suggesting the Serie A giants are exploring a loan deal.

Other European heavyweights, including AC Milan and Barcelona, were previously linked with Chiesa before his move to Liverpool. While the Reds are reluctant to part ways permanently with the 27-year-old, a loan spell to regain form and confidence could be on the cards.

Slot addressed Chiesa’s struggles earlier this season, stating:

“He had to adapt for quite a long time. I’ve said so many times, as expected if you miss team training sessions for so long. And then you go to a league where the intensity is so high as well, and to a team who plays with a lot of intensity. He is getting stronger, but he’s also facing a lot of competition in the right-wing position.”

Photo: IMAGO

Injuries and Competition Adding to Chiesa’s Challenges

Chiesa’s fitness issues have undeniably hampered his integration into Slot’s system. Recently sidelined with illness, Slot remarked:

“Sick. Ill. Unfortunately for him because he had some minutes against Southampton. Unfortunately, he was sick in the last two days and today as well, so we couldn’t bring him to the game.”

These setbacks have left Chiesa on the periphery of a Liverpool side thriving at the top of the Premier League. Slot’s team, buoyed by their consistency and depth, currently hold a six-point lead over Arsenal with a game in hand, positioning themselves as strong favourites for their second title in five years.

Future Uncertain for Chiesa at Liverpool

Liverpool’s attacking depth has been a double-edged sword for Chiesa. With fierce competition for starting spots, the Italian’s struggle to break into the team has been further compounded by the adaptation challenges cited by Slot. However, his potential remains undeniable, and Liverpool may view a loan spell as the perfect opportunity to revitalise his career.

Despite his lack of impact so far, Chiesa’s quality has never been in doubt. A regular at the highest levels of international and club football, the Italian has the pedigree to succeed if given the platform. It remains to be seen whether Liverpool’s faith in him will extend beyond January or whether a temporary move will provide the reboot he needs.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool fan’s perspective, Federico Chiesa’s reported frustrations come as a disappointment but not a surprise. The Italian’s limited game time has been a talking point among supporters, who had high hopes for a player of his calibre. Given the intense demands of Arne Slot’s system, it’s understandable that Chiesa has struggled to adapt, especially after missing significant training time and dealing with injuries.

However, the possibility of losing such a talented player—even on loan—raises questions about Liverpool’s squad depth. While the Reds are excelling this season, a long campaign with challenges on multiple fronts requires every player to contribute. Fans will hope that Chiesa’s reported dissatisfaction doesn’t lead to a permanent exit, as his versatility and flair could still be valuable assets.

Slot’s comments reflect the challenge of integrating a player into a side firing on all cylinders. Yet, some supporters may wonder if Chiesa has been given enough opportunities to prove himself. The idea of a loan move could be a win-win situation—allowing Chiesa to rebuild confidence while keeping him within Liverpool’s plans for the future.

Ultimately, fans will trust the club’s decision-making but will also hope to see Chiesa justify his reputation as one of Europe’s most exciting wingers in the famous red shirt.