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Federico Chiesa has declared his full commitment to Liverpool despite speculation over a potential exit, and is embracing a "fresh start" under new manager Andoni Iraola—even if that means operating in an unfamiliar role.
The Italian was brought to the club in 2024 by Arne Slot, but found himself used sparingly under the Dutchman. Over his two campaigns at Anfield, Chiesa has made just nine starts across 50 appearances, with only a third of those coming in the Premier League or Champions League.
A move back to Italy has been widely anticipated this summer despite Chiesa's popularity among supporters, but the 28-year-old seems determined to earn his place in Liverpool's squad next season following his frustrating lack of game time under Slot.
"The only conversations I had [with Iraola] were about pressing and tactics," said Chiesa following Liverpool's recent 4–2 friendly victory over Sunderland in Nashville. "So I don't know [about the future], it is difficult to say. It is always a fresh start at the beginning of the year. Maybe there have been too many fresh starts.
"But I don't care, I am trying to do my best for this new manager. Last season under Arne Slot, I was trying to do my best.
"Right now, at the moment, I am happy here at Liverpool. I love the club, I love the fans, I love everything. I am doing the best I can to have a chance here. And then we will see. At the minute, the only thing I am thinking about is Liverpool."
Chiesa Converted Into Makeshift Striker
Chiesa was deployed as a lone striker during the second half of Iraola's debut as Reds boss on Saturday, netting in the win over Sunderland before playing a key role in Lewis Koumas's late goal.
Predominantly a winger throughout his career, Chiesa has acknowledged that Iraola sees him as a viable option in the No. 9 position going forward.
"He put me [at] striker today and he wants me there. I have played my whole career as a winger but I am happy to play striker as well," said the Italy international.
"Preseason is always hard, no? We didn't just start, we have been training two weeks now with a new coach. We have seen what he wants. He wants high intensity, one versus one all over the pitch, that's what we wanted to show today. Of course it is hard, it is preseason."
Why Liverpool Need Chiesa More Than Ever
Liverpool frequently struggled for attacking depth last season despite their record-breaking summer expenditure. That problem has only worsened following the exit of club icon Mohamed Salah and a serious injury to Hugo Ekitiké, who faces a potential absence until 2027 after rupturing his Achilles.
The Reds have brought in World Cup winner Víctor Muñoz to help address the shortfall, though the inexperienced 23-year-old will need time to adapt to a new league and system.
Beyond Muñoz, Liverpool's attacking options are limited to Cody Gakpo, Rio Ngumoha, Alexander Isak and Chiesa, with Isak the only natural striker among the fit group.
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Redeploying Chiesa as an industrious, high-pressing center forward could prove vital. Isak's injury history and inconsistent form mean Liverpool cannot afford to depend entirely on the Sweden international until Ekitiké recovers, and utilizing Chiesa in that role would free up transfer funds to strengthen in other pressing areas.
Liverpool will almost certainly add another winger this summer, but Chiesa could relieve the pressure to sign a new striker if he can build the momentum he needs under Iraola.