Iraola Yet to Be Convinced by Two Liverpool Stars Facing Uncertain Game Time
Liverpool face an important decision over the futures of two gifted squad members who could once again struggle for regular minutes this season.
Both Harvey Elliott and Federico Chiesa have made it clear they are happy at Anfield, but fierce competition in midfield and attack means neither is guaranteed consistent playing time under Andoni Iraola.
The Reds have already strengthened their squad with the arrivals of Jérémy Jacquet and Víctor Muñoz, while the club continues to prioritise signing another top-class winger.
Following Mohamed Salah’s departure and last season’s injury setbacks, Liverpool still require quality depth. However, keeping players who have little chance of featuring regularly may not benefit either the club or the players themselves.
Elliott and Chiesa futures remain uncertain
According to The Athletic, Elliott and Chiesa remain among the biggest question marks in Liverpool’s squad planning.
Although both are keen to remain at Anfield, Iraola must determine whether they fit his tactical vision and can play significant roles in his system.
Elliott has returned after an underwhelming loan spell at Aston Villa eager to prove himself, but breaking into a midfield containing Florian Wirtz, Dominik Szoboszlai and several other high-quality options will be a difficult task.
Meanwhile, Chiesa also faces stiff competition in attack, and Liverpool’s pursuit of another winger could push him even further down the pecking order.
Despite that, both players still offer valuable qualities. Elliott brings creativity and intelligent movement between the lines, while Chiesa provides pace, versatility and experience across the front line.
Even so, sporadic appearances from the bench are unlikely to satisfy either player over the course of the campaign.
Liverpool must reach a decision
TEAMtalk reports that Crystal Palace are monitoring Elliott’s situation should he fail to convince Iraola, while Chiesa continues to attract interest from clubs in Italy.
Those potential exits give Liverpool options, although interested teams may delay formal offers until later in the transfer window in the hope that the Reds soften their asking prices.
Elliott deserves the chance to impress during pre-season, as his technical quality and quick combination play could suit Iraola’s style of football.
Chiesa, however, appears to face a more difficult path, particularly if Liverpool succeed in bringing in another wide attacker.
Liverpool should avoid forcing either player toward the exit, but a clear decision is needed. Selling one or both for the right price could free up funds and wages for priority signings, while keeping them without offering meaningful opportunities would only postpone an issue that will eventually need to be resolved.
