LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 23: Federico Chiesa of Liverpool during the Carabao Cup Third Round match between Liverpool and Southampton at Anfield on September 23, 2025 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)
In a decisive move for his inaugural season at Anfield, Liverpool’s head coach, Andoni Iraola, has expressed a pressing need to strengthen the squad with another winger. This news does not bode well for Federico Chiesa, whose chances on the pitch were notably curtailed under the previous management of Arne Slot.
Chiesa’s Path Forward: A Continued Challenge
Chiesa has been part of the Liverpool lineup for two seasons following his unexpected departure from Juventus in the summer of 2024, just one year before the end of his contract. Although the Italian international arrived with high expectations after a €15 million transfer, his initial campaign in the Premier League saw him feature in just six matches, five as a substitute.
His fortunes appeared to improve in the 2025-26 season, where he made 26 appearances in the Premier League, managing to score two goals and contribute an assist. However, a place as a regular starter continued to elude him.
As Iraola prepares for the 2026-27 season, Liverpool remains actively in search of a top-tier winger, further complicating Chiesa’s already precarious position on the squad, particularly in light of Mohamed Salah’s departure.
“We are fully aware of the areas that require reinforcement,” Iraola stated during a pre-season press briefing on Wednesday, underscoring the club’s commitment to improving their squad.
“One of those areas is certainly the winger position. We have a clear need to sign a player there,” he continued. “However, we also have a variety of dynamics to consider: the market conditions, available resources, and the players currently at our disposal. We’re navigating some tricky situations, particularly with a few injured players we still believe in, but it’s not ideal. The conclusion will ultimately depend on several factors.”
