Church Reborn in Liverpool: Slot Sees a Different ‘Federico’

Chiesa Revives His Game at Liverpool: A New Beginning

Liverpool’s coach, Arne Slot, has noticed a transformation in Federico Chiesa, highlighting his crucial impact from the bench in the team’s recent Premier League victory. After a complicated first season at Anfield, where injuries limited his participation to only 14 matches, Chiesa has proven his worth. His entry onto the field in the final minutes of the match against Bournemouth, with the score at 2-0 and the need for a goal, proved decisive. The Italian player, replacing Florian Wirtz, scored a goal in the 88th minute, solidifying his position as a hero for the fans. With Liverpool’s offensive options reduced, Chiesa could have a more important role this season, especially after a month where his departure seemed imminent.

I see a totally different Federico now compared to much of last season.

Arne Slot

Slot explained that the lack of pre-season and adaptation to the pace of the Premier League were key factors in his previous performance. Now, with better physical shape, Chiesa has more opportunities to influence the team’s results. The coach highlighted Chiesa’s importance when needing a goal, mentioning that he only had him and Rio Ngumoha, a 16-year-old, as offensive options. “It was a normal choice to bring him on and he delivered,” he added.

In addition to Chiesa, Liverpool has brought in Giovanni Leoni, an 18-year-old young defender from Italy. Slot has praised Leoni’s maturity and skills, highlighting his rapid adaptation to the team. Leoni, whose signing cost £26 million ($35 million), could be included in the team for the match against Newcastle. Slot commented that Leoni has trained with the team three times and has proven to be a promising player. “He comes as an 18-year-old playing with his new teammates as if he had been here longer. Impressive; if you look at how tall he is, fast, comfortable with the ball,” he stated. The coach highlighted that the investment in Leoni is due to its potential and the good dynamics of the team, where the new players feel comfortable from the beginning.