Liverpool manager Arne Slot has praised Federico Chiesa’s current form, stating that the Italian winger is now in a much stronger position to make an impact than he was last season.
Speaking after Chiesa’s match-winning performance in the Premier League opener against Bournemouth, Slot highlighted the importance of the player’s availability. “If he’s more available, then he already has more chances to impact our results or his playing time,” he explained.
Slot emphasized that Chiesa’s struggles last season were understandable, as he missed pre-season and had to quickly adapt to the demanding pace and intensity of the Premier League. This lack of preparation, Slot noted, significantly affected his rhythm and performance.
Now, however, the coach sees a completely different player. “He’s in a much better place now and, as we can all see, when we needed a goal and I looked to the bench, I only had him and Rio, a 16-year-old, as attacking options. For me, although Rio did really well in pre-season, it was a normal choice to bring Chiesa on—and he delivered,” Slot added.
Chiesa’s future at Anfield had looked uncertain, with strong speculation that he could leave after just one season. But circumstances have changed, and with his improved fitness and growing influence, he now seems ready to embrace a second chance at Liverpool.
