Chiesa’s Liverpool Struggles Prompt Transfer Speculation Amid Limited Playing Time

omidbasir- Federico Chiesa’s career at Liverpool has faced another setback, as the winger was relegated to a mere 22-minute appearance during a 3-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest. This marks his ninth Premier League outing this season, yet he has yet to start a single match, with his only full 90-minute performances occurring in the Carabao Cup.

Despite Liverpool’s ongoing struggles and evident issues in wide positions, manager Slot has shown no inclination to integrate Chiesa into his preferred rotation. Instead, Slot has consistently opted for Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo, with Hugo Ekitike also receiving playing time on the wings. Consequently, Chiesa’s lack of consistent involvement has hindered his ability to develop rhythm and match fitness.

This limited engagement has drawn significant scrutiny in Italy, where analysts and fans believe Chiesa deserves greater responsibility on the pitch. Reports from TuttoJuve indicate that several Serie A clubs have approached Chiesa’s representatives and Liverpool ahead of the January transfer window. Inter Milan and AC Milan are considered the frontrunners, both viewing him as a player who could significantly enhance their attacking depth. AS Roma has also expressed interest, expanding the options available to Chiesa as he seeks a role that guarantees more minutes.

Chiesa joined Liverpool in the summer of 2024, with many praising the move as a strategic investment given his pedigree and potential. However, his transition to England has been overshadowed by persistent fitness concerns, limiting his contributions to the team. The lack of regular playing time has eroded his confidence and sharpness, raising questions about whether returning to Italy is the best option for rejuvenating his career.

The tactical framework implemented by Slot has further exacerbated Chiesa’s challenges. The manager’s system emphasizes high-intensity pressing and continuous off-the-ball movement, aspects that Chiesa has struggled to maintain due to recurrent muscular injuries. Although his productivity per minute remains commendable, his limited participation has prevented him from mounting a serious challenge to Liverpool’s established forwards. As the season unfolds, it is increasingly evident that Chiesa is not intended to be part of Slot’s long-term plans.

This situation is also causing concern within the Italian national team setup, where regular playing time is deemed crucial ahead of the 2026 World Cup playoffs. A transfer in January, particularly back to Serie A, appears to be the most favorable scenario for Chiesa to regain a prominent role and rebuild his reputation with the Azzurri.

Chiesa’s difficulties at Liverpool reflect deeper issues that have existed prior to his Premier League move. Following a significant ACL injury in 2022, the winger has struggled to maintain the explosive consistency that previously made him one of Europe’s most feared wide players. His time at Juventus was similarly interrupted by inconsistent form, and his move to England was expected to provide a fresh start, which has unfortunately not materialized.

Injuries remain a critical part of Chiesa’s narrative. Since joining Liverpool, he has missed substantial stretches, including over two months during the 2024/25 season due to muscular injuries. Even when available, he has yet to start a league match this season, logging just over 100 minutes across eight appearances from the bench. Despite scoring twice, he has not been able to do so with the regularity necessary to secure a place in Slot’s favored starting eleven.

This lack of stability has intensified speculation surrounding a possible mid-season departure. Inter Milan reportedly views him as an ideal depth option who could add unpredictability to Simone Inzaghi’s forward line, while AC Milan considers him a potential complement to Rafael Leao and Christian Pulisic. Roma is also monitoring the situation, indicating that Chiesa’s standing in Italy remains strong despite his challenges in England.

Liverpool’s decision regarding Chiesa before the January window will largely depend on whether Slot envisions a future role for him beyond limited appearances. If his minimal involvement persists, the club may be amenable to sanctioning a loan with an option or obligation to buy, especially as multiple Serie A clubs are prepared to negotiate. With Chiesa eager for playing time and Italy’s coaching staff advocating for a move that assures regular minutes, the momentum for an exit appears to be building.