Federico Chiesa’s Liverpool Future in Doubt as Napoli Talks Begin
Chiesa Open to Anfield Exit After Limited Game-Time
Less than a year into his Liverpool tenure, Federico Chiesa’s future already appears delicately poised. According to Empire of the Kop, “Chiesa would desire a return to Italy this summer in search of more regular game-time, having played just 466 minutes for Liverpool in his first season in England.”
The Italian forward arrived with pedigree and promise, yet under Arne Slot, opportunities have been scarce. While injuries and competition on the flanks have played their part, the bottom line is clear, Chiesa wants to play. Regularly.
That desire may lead him back to Serie A, with Napoli reportedly holding strong interest. As Empire of the Kop noted, “The 27-year-old is open to joining Napoli and the interest is mutual,” with Fiorentina and AC Milan also monitoring his situation.
Napoli Hold Tactical Appeal
Should Chiesa decide to leave Merseyside, Napoli may offer both familiarity and opportunity. Under new manager Antonio Conte, the Serie A champions are reshaping their attack. Though the squad includes wide options, none are as productive or versatile as Chiesa at his peak.
His ability to operate on either flank or behind a central striker could prove invaluable in a Conte system known for wing-back width and attacking flexibility. As the report highlights, “He’s a wonderfully versatile player… positions where Gli Azzurri don’t have much depth at present.”
While Mo Salah’s presence at Liverpool has made right-wing minutes nearly impossible to come by, Chiesa may find greater tactical freedom in Naples. Yet, as the article rightly adds, “he doesn’t want to finalise his decision until he’s had further discussions with the Anfield hierarchy.”
Liverpool Open to Offers Amid Reshuffle
Chiesa’s uncertain status isn’t isolated. Liverpool, now operating under Arne Slot and sporting director Richard Hughes, are clearly recalibrating. The Athletic has stated the club is “willing to entertain offers” for Chiesa, and Football Insider reports that Slot “would give the green light to a possible sale if a satisfactory offer comes in.”
It’s a pragmatic stance. With Liverpool facing another campaign on multiple fronts, maintaining a balanced, motivated squad is essential. If Chiesa sees his future elsewhere and a club meets the asking price, a move could suit all parties.
However, given his quality and experience, many Liverpool fans may feel the club hasn’t yet given him a fair run. After all, 466 minutes, across a congested season, isn’t much time to make a lasting impression.
Decision Expected After Talks With Club
Chiesa, for his part, appears to be taking a professional approach. “Similar to Andy Robertson, Chiesa isn’t rushing into a decision… he wants to do so in a respectful manner,” Empire of the Kop notes. There’s an air of mutual respect in how this situation is being handled.
But unless Liverpool can promise him a more prominent role in 2025/26, a departure seems inevitable. A move to Napoli or another top Italian side could reignite his form, and give him the consistency he’s craved since arriving in England.
Our View – Anfield Index Analysis
For Liverpool fans, Federico Chiesa’s possible departure will come with mixed emotions. On one hand, his talent is clear, a European champion with Juventus, a sharp, intelligent forward capable of game-changing moments. On the other, he simply hasn’t had the platform to show that in a Liverpool shirt.
Many supporters were excited when he signed, viewing him as a high-level rotation option to relieve pressure on Salah or offer dynamism from the left. But when chances did come, they were few and fragmented. It’s hard to build rhythm in cameos, and Chiesa looked like a player caught between trying to impress and trying not to make a mistake.
There’s also the wider sense that Liverpool’s squad is evolving. With Slot bringing in new tactical ideas and the club seemingly focused on youth and athleticism, perhaps Chiesa, approaching 28, doesn’t quite fit the blueprint.
Still, the frustration lingers. Did he really get a proper chance? Could a more defined role under Slot turn things around? Many would love to see him stay for one more season, injury-free and settled. But if he does leave, most Reds will wish him well, while wondering what might have been.
