Liverpool’s summer signing of Federico Chiesa was met with much optimism by fans.
The Italian’s time at Anfield however hasn’t gone as planned so far, featuring very little under Arne Slot this season.
Chiesa’s impressive Carabao Cup final display though has led many to question Slot’s handling of the attacker, especially after David Lynch revealed the player had an ‘immaculate attitude in training’.
So with no bad attitude to contest with, supporters are now asking what is preventing Chiesa from getting a real chance at Liverpool.
- READ MORE: Arne Slot owes Federico Chiesa a big apology after Liverpool’s Carabao Cup defeat to Newcastle
Liverpool fans criticise Arne Slot’s handling of Federico Chiesa
Jamie Carragher thinks Slot does not trust Chiesa to start for Liverpool, which has been shown by the Italian’s tally of just three starts.
Despite his limited gametime, Chiesa has racked up impressive stats providing a goal contribution every 97 minutes this season.
With this in mind, Liverpool fans have come to the defence of Chiesa, criticising Slot’s treatment of the former Juventus man.
One fan said via X (formerly Twitter): “It’s ridiculous that Nunez gets minutes when Chiesa doesn’t. I like Slot but there has been times when I believe he has made the wrong decision.”
A third fan said: “Great attitude, clearly has ability but Slot and team can’t find a way to get him a rhythm with the core first team squad. Given the struggles of Diaz recently and Gapko’s injury is odd that he hasn’t been given mins.”
“Under Klopp people came because they knew there would be opportunities and trust from the manager. I’m worried that Slot won’t have the same reputation. He seems to stick with a very small cohort and others don’t get a look in,” added another supporter.
Chiesa may have to leave Liverpool to reignite World Cup hopes
Having barely featured for the Reds, Chiesa’s lack of game time is also starting to affect his standing with the Italian national team.
Azzurri boss Luciano Spalletti recently left the attacker out of his squad for the March internationals, with Spalletti claiming Chiesa needs more minutes if he wants to return to the Italy roster.
With the World Cup just 18 months away, Chiesa may be tempted to cut his Anfield career short to find himself more game time.
A return to Italy could be a viable option for the 27-year-old, with the likes of Napoli interested in Chiesa’s signature.
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