The careers of many football players depend on the unbelievable: a red card here, a torn ACL there, and before anyone knows what happened, a football player who was cleaning the bench is in the news. Federico Chiesa has found himself in exactly that situation at Liverpool. Thanks to Hugo Ekitike’s moment of shirtless glory and Giovanni Leoni’s cruel knee injury, the Italian winger has reappeared in Arne Slot’s plans for both the Premier League and Champions League. Hard work may bring luck, but sometimes it just takes someone else’s bad luck to open the door.
Federico Chiesa makes his case
Two assists in the Carabao Cup against Southampton were the perfect “don’t forget me” performance. Chiesa reminded everyone that when he’s fit and focused, he still has that burst of flair that once terrified Serie A defense. According to sources, Slot wasn’t planning to use him in Europe until Leoni’s injury and that cup cameo. But Chiesa’s cameo may have rewritten the script. Opportunity in football rarely knocks twice; this time, it kicked the door in.
Federico Chiesa and the Selhurst audition
Now he’s expected to feature against Crystal Palace, most likely deputising for Ekitike. Selhurst Park isn’t exactly the Sistine Chapel, but for Chiesa, it could feel like his grand stage. If he shines, Liverpool fans might forgive him for being invisible last season. If not, he’s back to the glass house—pressing his face against the window of opportunity while others dance inside.
My take on Chiesa
Here’s the blunt truth: Chiesa is 27. That’s not “promising youngster” territory; that’s “prove it now or pack your bags” territory. Liverpool didn’t sign him to be the team’s fifth-choice winger. In my opinion, this month is the fork in the road. He either shows he belongs at Anfield or he becomes another “what if” tale fans mutter about over pints.
As featured on Walkon.com
