Federico Chiesa`s career has been a rollercoaster ride. Once hailed as Italy`s next big star at Fiorentina, injuries derailed his progress after a move to Juventus. A transfer to Liverpool last season offered hope, but Chiesa struggled to make an impact under new manager Arne Slot.
However, an unfortunate ACL injury to young defender Giovanni Leoni has opened the door for Chiesa to be added to Liverpool`s Champions League squad. This presents an unexpected opportunity for the Italian winger to revive his career on Europe`s biggest stage.
Chiesa showed flashes of his talent earlier in his career, starring for Italy at Euro 2020. But he has never fully recaptured that form since suffering his own ACL injury in 2022. Now 28, this may be Chiesa`s last chance to prove he can still be an elite player.
While replacing Leoni in the squad, Chiesa offers a different skill set as an attacking option. His pace and dribbling could be valuable weapons for Slot`s high-pressing system. Chiesa has already shown promise this season with a goal and two assists in limited minutes.
For Chiesa, consistent playing time and avoiding further injuries will be crucial. If he can stay fit and regain confidence, he has the talent to be an impact player for Liverpool in the Champions League and Premier League. With a World Cup approaching, there`s added motivation for Chiesa to impress.
This opportunity comes at a pivotal moment in Chiesa`s career. If he fails to make his mark this season, his future at Liverpool and as a top-level player may be in doubt. But if Chiesa can recapture his best form, he could still fulfill his immense potential and become a key figure for club and country once again.