Football BaBe
Federico Chiesa Eyes Serie A Return Amid Liverpool Exit
Italian Star Seeks Fresh Start Back Home After Turbulent Anfield Stint
In a surprising turn of events, Federico Chiesa is gearing up for a potential departure from Liverpool following a challenging debut season. With the focus now on reclaiming his spot in top-tier football, the winger is prioritizing a move back to Serie A, turning down offers from elsewhere to chase regular playtime ahead of major international tournaments.
- Chiesa to leave Liverpool after just one season
- Rejected Fenerbahce move despite Mourinho’s interest
- Wants Serie A return; AC Milan and Napoli monitoring
Chiesa’s Liverpool Journey Hits a Roadblock
The Italian forward’s time at Liverpool appears to be wrapping up this transfer window, marked by underwhelming performances on Merseyside. New manager Arne Slot has left him out of the team’s preparatory matches abroad, signaling that he’s surplus to requirements for the upcoming campaign. Reports from outlets like Calciomercato indicate that while Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce expressed keen interest, Chiesa has opted against the Turkish switch, favoring a comeback to his native league instead.
Performance Stats and Challenges Faced
Arriving from Juventus for approximately €15 million (equivalent to £13m or $17m), Chiesa featured in only 14 games, netting a couple of goals across 466 minutes of action. Factors such as recurring injuries, scarce opportunities on the pitch, and a stacked forward line pushed him to the fringes. As the build-up to the 2026 World Cup intensifies, securing consistent minutes is crucial for him. Although Serie A tops his wishlist, his current €7m annual net wage is a significant hurdle. Teams like AC Milan, Napoli, Atalanta, and Roma are watching closely but hesitate due to the high financial commitment.
Injury Setbacks and Potential Revival
At 27, Chiesa has battled back from a major knee ligament tear in 2022, compounded by ongoing muscle problems that have hampered his reliability. Yet, in peak condition, he remains a dynamic force capable of turning matches. Heading back to Italy could offer a revitalizing chapter, perhaps linking up again with familiar tacticians such as Massimiliano Allegri or Antonio Conte. Recent examples, like how players such as Rafael Leão have thrived post-injury in Serie A, highlight the league’s potential for comebacks- with 2024 stats showing Italian clubs investing over €500m in transfers to bolster squads.
Transfer Prospects and Salary Negotiations Key to Serie A Move
Liverpool is willing to part ways with the winger on a permanent basis, possibly for under the €15m they shelled out initially. Italian suitors are poised to act, but any agreement hinges on Chiesa lowering his pay expectations. For instance, AC Milan’s pursuit depends on their own player sales, whereas Napoli eyes him as a successor to talents like Dan Ndoye. As the window progresses, these dynamics could shape a deal that reignites Chiesa’s career in familiar territory.