A Liverpool star has said “no” after being contacted directly by his national team boss. This could be a big moment for the fan favorite.
Let’s be honest, Federico Chiesa’s career at Liverpool has been a strange one. There was considerable hype around his arrival in August 2024, but it was quickly apparent that he lacked fitness after missing Juventus’ pre-season.
advertise
Getting him healthy from there was a long process, and once he was healthy, Arne Slott still didn’t use him. Just six appearances and one start in the Premier League – far exceeding all expectations.
As a result, everyone expected Chiesa to leave the club in the summer. However, he surprised everyone by deciding to stay at Anfield and fight for his place.
That’s what it’s like this season. To be honest, Chiesa has struggled for his place and produced moments that rival the best in the team.
But this is not enough. Slott has yet to start the Italian in a Premier League game this season and has never used him for more than 20 minutes at a time.
advertise
Federico Chiesa says no
What’s particularly interesting about Chiesa’s position is that he’s doing all this in a World Cup year. Italy would love to have him in their squad but feel they can’t call up a player who doesn’t actually play.
IItaly coach Gattuso reportedly suggested Chiesa leave Liverpool to join an Italian club. That would almost certainly qualify him for the World Cup.
Chiesa, however, apparently rejected the idea.
“The coach has a direct contact, just like the other players in the team,” Italy assistant Leonardo Bonucci explained to Sky Italia.
advertise
“We monitor all players in Italy and abroad.
“The coach had specific and direct contact with Federico, who said he preferred to continue on his own path and that he hoped to be fully fit and ready to join the national team.
“He is part of a wider group and could be called up for the playoffs, but that is something we will discuss in early February and hopefully everyone who is called up can make a full recovery.”
At this point, Chiesa has shown incredible confidence in staying at Liverpool. That and stubbornness.
We hope he stays and gets more opportunities, especially as he proves himself every time he steps on the field. We’re just not sure that’s going to happen under Slaughter – it could very well cost him his World Cup hopes.