Federico Chiesa has emerged as a central figure in Liverpool’s upcoming transfer plans, with reports suggesting that the Italian winger could soon play a major role under Arne Slot.
As Liverpool navigates a challenging start to the season, Chiesa’s growing influence and potential connection to Mohamed Salah’s situation have become key talking points. With the January transfer window approaching, Slot’s strategy appears to be taking shape around how to best prepare for Salah’s possible absence.
Salah’s Absence Looms Large
Salah recently helped Egypt secure qualification for the World Cup, but his participation in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) later this year means Liverpool could be without him for up to ten matches between late December and mid-January.
While Jeremie Frimpong has been considered a possible stand-in on the right wing, Chiesa appears to be a more natural fit for the role. Though he hasn’t fully rediscovered his peak form, his pace, energy, and attacking instincts make him a strong option to fill the gap left by Salah during this busy fixture period.
Liverpool have faced this scenario before, with AFCON regularly impacting their schedule every two years. This time, however, the club’s attacking depth could be tested more than ever.
Squad Depth and New Opportunities
Following a summer of major attacking reinforcements, Slot will rely on Alexander Isak, Hugo Ekitike, and Florian Wirtz to share the goalscoring burden in Salah’s absence. Cody Gakpo is also expected to play a key role across the forward line.
For Chiesa, this presents the perfect opportunity to solidify his place in the team. His recent performances — including a standout display against Southampton in the Carabao Cup and a crucial equaliser against Crystal Palace — have shown glimpses of what he can offer.
Though a minor injury temporarily slowed his momentum, a return to full fitness by late December could see Chiesa step seamlessly into Salah’s role at a pivotal point in Liverpool’s season.
Why Chiesa Fits the Role
Unlike Frimpong, who is naturally a wing-back, Chiesa is a forward with strong attacking instincts and direct movement — qualities that align closely with Salah’s style. If he can maintain form and fitness, the AFCON period could serve as the perfect stage for him to showcase his value both as a short-term replacement and a long-term option in Slot’s tactical setup.
Expert Insight: Ian Doyle’s Perspective
Liverpool journalist Ian Doyle believes Salah’s recent form for Egypt — including two goals in midweek — will boost his confidence heading into AFCON.
“Salah won’t become replaceable overnight,” Doyle noted. “Liverpool will certainly feel his absence when he leaves for the tournament in Morocco, running from December 21 to January 18.”
He added that Slot may rotate Frimpong, Ekitike, and Gakpo based on tactical demands, but Chiesa’s versatility could make him an essential figure during this period.
Chiesa’s Moment to Shine
Chiesa joined Liverpool from Juventus last summer as Salah’s understudy. After limited opportunities early on, he has started to re-establish himself as a reliable attacking option. While he may not start every game during Salah’s absence, Liverpool’s heavy winter schedule should offer him ample chances to impress.
If Chiesa can replicate his recent form and stay injury-free, this could be the defining stretch of his Liverpool career — and the moment he truly announces himself as a key part of Arne Slot’s evolving project.
