Federico Chiesa has become a key figure of discussion among Liverpool fans this season, with growing speculation about his role in the team’s future. As the Reds navigate a challenging start to the campaign, Chiesa could soon be a central part of manager Arne Slot’s plans.
While Mohamed Salah continues to be a pivotal figure at Liverpool, his recent form has raised questions, and Chiesa’s performances are starting to make his case for more playing time. In just under 180 minutes of football, Chiesa has managed to contribute two goals and two assists, showcasing his potential when given the opportunity.
Salah’s Absence and What It Means for Liverpool
Salah’s absence could become a pressing issue in the near future. After helping Egypt secure World Cup qualification, Salah is set to participate in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which will see him miss up to 10 matches from late December onwards. This creates a gap in Liverpool’s attack, and Slot has been considering options to fill the void, with Chiesa emerging as a strong candidate.
Although Salah has yet to hit his usual high standards this season, his absence during the congested festive period — when the Premier League schedule is at its busiest — is a significant concern. However, Liverpool has experience in managing the disruption caused by AFCON, which occurs every two years.
Creating Opportunities Amidst Depth Concerns
Following a busy summer of transfers, Slot will rely on players like Alexander Isak, Hugo Ekitike, and Florian Wirtz to step up and share the goalscoring load in Salah’s absence. Cody Gakpo will also play a pivotal role across the front line. Despite these options, Chiesa’s absence of pressure could provide him with a golden opportunity to prove his worth and secure a more regular spot in the starting lineup.
Chiesa impressed with a standout performance against Southampton in the Carabao Cup, followed by a crucial equaliser off the bench against Crystal Palace. While a minor injury briefly halted his momentum, he is expected to be fit by late December, positioning him to step into the starting role during Salah’s absence.
Chiesa’s Natural Fit for Liverpool’s System
Although Jeremie Frimpong was signed as a backup for Salah, his background as a wing-back makes him less suited to the attacking role required on the right flank. In contrast, Chiesa’s natural instincts as a forward, combined with his speed and direct style, make him a more fitting option to replace Salah. If Chiesa returns to full fitness, the timing of AFCON could offer him a chance to shine — not only as a short-term solution but as a long-term fixture in Slot’s system.
Ian Doyle’s Take on the Situation
Journalist Ian Doyle believes that Salah’s recent performances for Egypt, including scoring two goals in a recent match, will help him regain confidence ahead of AFCON. However, Doyle acknowledges that Salah’s absence will be keenly felt by Liverpool, and while Slot may consider Frimpong for the right wing role, other players like Hugo Ekitike and Cody Gakpo will also be rotated depending on the tactical needs.
It’s worth noting that Chiesa was originally signed from Juventus as Salah’s understudy, and although he has had limited opportunities so far, he has begun to show his worth this season. His versatility and attacking threat could prove invaluable as Liverpool faces a packed fixture schedule in the coming months.
Chiesa is unlikely to start every match in Salah’s absence, but with multiple competitions to contend with during the holiday season, he will have ample chances to make an impact. Unlike last season, the Italian winger has already shown he can be decisive when called upon, and this winter could be the moment he truly establishes himself as a key player in Arne Slot’s Liverpool setup.
