Liverpool are reportedly becoming increasingly prepared to allow Federico Chiesa to leave Anfield when the January transfer window opens, with the Italian forward facing an increasingly difficult situation under manager Andoni Iraola.
The 29-year-old arrived at Liverpool from Juventus in 2024 with hopes of becoming an important member of the squad. However, his time at Anfield has been far from straightforward, as injuries and limited playing opportunities have prevented him from establishing himself in the team.
Chiesa’s Liverpool situation continues to worsen
Chiesa was expected to receive more opportunities following the change in Liverpool’s coaching staff after struggling to make a significant impact under former manager Arne Slot.
However, his situation has reportedly become even more frustrating under new manager Andoni Iraola.
According to Dean Jones of Flashscore, the Italian forward has managed just two minutes of football under Iraola despite recovering from a back injury almost a month ago.
His lack of involvement has raised serious concerns about his future at Anfield. Chiesa was also surprisingly omitted from Liverpool’s matchday squad for their recent Premier League encounter against Arsenal, despite reportedly being available for selection.
Liverpool’s attacking options create another problem
One of the biggest reasons behind Chiesa’s struggles is the increasing competition for places in Liverpool’s attacking department.
The arrivals of Victor Munoz and Bradley Barcola have strengthened the team’s forward options, while the impressive performances of young attacker Lewis Koumas have reportedly pushed Chiesa further down the pecking order.
Liverpool also have Hugo Ekitike expected to return from injury, potentially creating even more competition for attacking positions.
With several players fighting for limited opportunities, Chiesa faces an increasingly difficult challenge in trying to convince Iraola that he deserves a regular place in the squad.
Three Italian clubs emerge as potential destinations
A return to Italian football could provide Chiesa with an opportunity to rebuild his career.
According to the report, Lazio, Inter Milan and Roma are among the clubs that could explore the possibility of bringing the forward back to Serie A.
Chiesa previously enjoyed his football in Italy before making the move to Liverpool in 2024. Returning to familiar surroundings could help him regain confidence and rediscover the form that made him one of Italy’s exciting attacking talents.
However, any potential transfer will depend on Liverpool’s financial demands and whether interested clubs are prepared to reach an agreement.
Roy Keane’s comments highlight Chiesa’s struggles
Chiesa’s limited involvement has also attracted attention from former football personalities.
Former Manchester United midfielder Roy Keane questioned whether the Italian was still at Liverpool during an appearance on the Stick to Football podcast.
His comments highlighted just how little the forward has featured since arriving at Anfield.
For a player who joined Liverpool hoping to revive his career and establish himself at a major Premier League club, the current situation represents a significant disappointment.
January transfer window could decide his future
Liverpool could now face an important decision regarding Chiesa’s future when the January transfer window opens.
Allowing him to leave would potentially create additional space in an already crowded attacking department while giving the player an opportunity to find a club where he can enjoy more regular football.
Unless Liverpool encounter a significant injury crisis, Chiesa’s opportunities could remain extremely limited.
Although no official agreement has been announced, a January departure is reportedly becoming an increasingly realistic possibility.
The coming weeks could therefore prove crucial in determining whether Chiesa remains at Anfield or begins a new chapter elsewhere.
