“He Can’t Even Play Ten Minutes!” – Former Italy Star Slams Liverpool’s Federico Chiesa Over Fitness Issues | OneFootball

Federico Chiesa’s Liverpool Struggles: What’s Going Wrong?

Liverpool fans were thrilled when Federico Chiesa joined from Juventus in the summer, with high hopes for his impact on Arne Slot’s new-look squad. His pace, skill, and flexibility in attack were seen as assets that could add dynamism to Liverpool’s forward line. However, just a few months into his Anfield career, Chiesa’s time in the Premier League has been marred by injuries and a lack of fitness, raising concerns about his long-term role at Liverpool.

Injury Troubles and Limited Game Time

Since his £12 million transfer, Chiesa has played a mere 78 minutes, spread across three appearances, with only one start—a 5-1 Carabao Cup victory over West Ham. This sparse game time has led many to wonder if his injury issues at Juventus may be following him to Liverpool. Manager Arne Slot openly expressed disappointment, pointing to Chiesa’s lack of pre-season preparation as a key reason for his struggles in adapting to the intensity of English football.

“He missed a complete pre-season,” Slot explained last month, “and going to a league where the intensity might even be higher than the Italian league.” These remarks highlight Slot’s concern about Chiesa’s physical fitness and adaptation to Liverpool’s demanding style of play. With Chiesa struggling to remain match-fit, Liverpool’s attacking options appear limited, with the Italian’s potential remaining unrealised.

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Antonio Cassano’s Frustration

Former Italy international Antonio Cassano recently weighed in on Chiesa’s difficulties at Liverpool, making his feelings clear in a fiery interview with Viva El Futbol. Cassano, known for his outspoken personality, was less than pleased with the lack of clarity on Chiesa’s situation, especially given Chiesa’s importance to the Italian national team.

“You need to tell me what the f**k is happening with Chiesa,” Cassano said. “A player who in 2021 was one of the best, if not the best, along with (Gianluigi) Donnarumma in the Italy team that won. I thought he’d be fine in a different league, playing wherever he wants, but he can’t even play 10 minutes in the league.”

Cassano’s comments reflect the frustration felt by many Italian fans, who see Chiesa as crucial to Italy’s future. His inability to stay fit and adapt at Liverpool not only impacts the club but also Italy’s national team, with Cassano suggesting that the situation raises questions about Chiesa’s health and readiness.

Possible Return to Serie A?

Rumours have surfaced that Chiesa might be considering a swift return to Serie A, with AC Milan reportedly interested in a swap deal. While it may be premature to discuss his departure, the fact that such speculations are emerging so early into his Liverpool career is telling. Chiesa’s lack of game time and ongoing injury concerns have led to doubts over his long-term suitability for the Premier League, and a return to Italy might be seen as an easier path for the 26-year-old forward.

However, a hasty move back to Serie A could be a step backwards for both player and club. Liverpool’s recent record with injured players suggests that with time, patience, and the right support, Chiesa could still shine at Anfield. His versatility and natural talent are qualities that Arne Slot likely values highly, and giving up on him this early may deny Liverpool a potential game-changer.

Slot’s Vision vs. Chiesa’s Reality

Arne Slot came to Liverpool with a vision to reinvigorate the squad, and Chiesa was a part of that plan. But so far, Chiesa’s situation has underscored the challenges that can arise when players move to a new league without adequate preparation. Slot’s statement about the missed pre-season emphasises the gap between his expectations for Chiesa and the current reality.

With Liverpool navigating both domestic and European competitions, Chiesa’s presence on the pitch would have been a valuable asset. But if his injury woes persist, Liverpool’s investment may start to look like a gamble that didn’t pay off. Slot’s comments suggest he hasn’t given up on Chiesa yet, but the clock is ticking.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool fan’s perspective, Chiesa’s troubles are frustrating yet worth the wait. Supporters have seen what he can offer—flashes of brilliance and a technical ability that could set him apart in the Premier League. While the early setbacks are disappointing, especially given Liverpool’s challenging schedule, fans still believe that Chiesa has what it takes to thrive under Slot’s guidance.

Injuries are part and parcel of football, and Liverpool fans are no strangers to waiting for players to regain form. Virgil van Dijk’s comeback after his ACL injury is a prime example, and many would argue that Chiesa deserves the same patience. Slot’s system demands peak physicality, and while the Italian hasn’t fully adapted yet, there’s hope he can turn things around. The link with AC Milan may be unsettling, but for fans, it’s too soon to consider parting ways with such a promising player. If Chiesa can regain his fitness and form, he could still be one of the most exciting players in the Liverpool lineup.