Federico Chiesa has opened up about his future at Liverpool amid growing speculation and the recent tactical change under new manager Andoni Ierola. The 28-year-old Italian forward, who has struggled to secure consistent playing time since his arrival, is now embracing a new opportunity to redefine his role at Anfield.
Chiesa’s recent appearance in Liverpool’s preseason tie against Sunderland was a clear statement of intent. Deployed centrally rather than on the flank, he not only adapted seamlessly to the striking role, but also found the net, indicating his readiness to make a significant contribution in a new position. This tactical change has led to widespread intrigue over whether Ireola plans to integrate Chiesa more prominently into the team’s attacking structure.
Speaking exclusively to The Athletic, Chiesa expressed his unwavering commitment to Liverpool despite uncertainty over his future. “At the moment, I’m happy here at Liverpool,” he said. “I love the club, I love the fans, I love everything. I’m trying my best to get the chance here and then we’ll see. At the moment, the only thing I’m thinking about is Liverpool.”
Reflecting on the past season marked by intermittent opportunities, Chiesa acknowledged the challenges but remained focused on the new chapter unfolding under Ierola. “There’s always a fresh start at the beginning of the year. There may have been a lot of new starts, but I don’t care about that. I’m just trying to do my best for this new manager,” he said. “Last year I also felt ready to play a bigger role, but then it depended on whether the coach wanted me to play or not. The idiot had his own game plans, he made his own decisions, I have nothing to say about that. This year, let’s say it’s a new chapter. There’s a new manager and I have to focus on that.”
Chiesa also revealed the nature of his discussions with Ierola, with an emphasis on pressing and tactical versatility. “The only conversations I have had with the coach are about pressure and tactics. He made me a striker today. I have played my entire career as a winger but I am happy to play as a striker as well,” he said. “We have been training for two weeks now with a new coach and we have seen what he wants. He wants high intensity, one versus one on the whole pitch, that’s what we wanted to show today.”
With his proven quality and adaptability, Chiesa represents a dynamic and valuable asset to Liverpool’s attacking options. Ierola’s preference for versatile forwards could provide the Italian a key role this season, contributing to both goals and creative chances. This tactical development could perhaps be the turning point that redefines Chiesa’s Liverpool career, turning uncertainty at Anfield into a compelling new chapter.
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