Chiesa availability boosts Liverpool options
Liverpool head into Saturday’s Premier League meeting with Brighton hopeful of welcoming back a much-needed attacking option, with Federico Chiesa edging closer to contention after missing the midweek trip to Inter Milan.
Arne Slot was forced into tactical improvisation at the San Siro, deploying a 4-4-2 diamond amid a shortage of senior forwards. That approach earned praise internally, but there is an expectation that Liverpool’s options could be bolstered this weekend, easing the strain on the head coach as he weighs up his selection.
According to Lewis Steele’s latest Liverpool Confidential report for Mail Sport, Chiesa “should be back in contention” to face Brighton on Saturday. The Italian was ruled out of the Inter fixture due to illness, despite being close enough to fitness that a late decision was taken on the day of travel.
Liverpool were already light in attacking areas, with multiple senior forwards unavailable for different reasons, and Chiesa’s absence only compounded the issue. His return would not only provide another body but also a different profile of forward, something Slot has often referenced as important across a long season.
Chiesa has had an interrupted start to life at Anfield since arriving from Juventus in August 2024. While his Premier League minutes have largely come from the bench, Liverpool’s medical staff have been keen to manage his workload carefully, particularly given the intensity of Slot’s demands.
Brighton clash comes at key moment
The timing of Chiesa’s potential return is notable. Brighton visit Anfield having caused Liverpool problems in recent seasons, often through their flexibility and bravery in possession. Slot will be keen to have as many tactical levers available as possible, especially in wide and half-space areas where Brighton typically look to overload.
Chiesa’s only Premier League start to date came against Brighton earlier in the campaign, a reminder that Slot does trust him in specific game plans. Whether that translates into another start remains uncertain, but even a role from the bench could prove significant if Liverpool need a spark.
Internally, there is recognition that Liverpool’s attacking output has sometimes lacked variety when options are limited. Chiesa offers directness, aggression and a willingness to take responsibility, traits that have been welcomed by both staff and supporters.
Slot’s selection approach remains cautious
Despite growing clamour from sections of the fanbase to see Chiesa handed a run in the side, Slot has consistently shown he will not be swayed by popularity. His team selections this season have been shaped by training data, physical readiness and tactical balance rather than sentiment.
That approach suggests Chiesa may again be eased back rather than rushed into the starting XI, particularly after illness. Slot has previously stressed the importance of rhythm and robustness, especially for players adapting to the Premier League’s physical demands.
Nevertheless, Chiesa’s commitment has not gone unnoticed. His stoppage-time defensive contribution against Sunderland last week, when he tracked back to deny a late winner, was highlighted internally as an example of the standards expected at Liverpool. Such moments carry weight when coaches assess trust and reliability.
Importance of squad depth ahead of busy run
Even if Chiesa begins on the bench against Brighton, his availability would be a timely boost. Slot named only eight of the permitted 12 substitutes in Milan, underlining how stretched Liverpool were in midweek.
With domestic and European commitments piling up, Liverpool will need contributions from across the squad. Chiesa’s gradual reintegration could prove vital as the season enters a decisive phase, particularly against opponents like Brighton who demand intensity and concentration until the final whistle.
For now, the expectation is cautious optimism. Chiesa is close, Liverpool are short, and Saturday presents an opportunity for both player and club to take a small but meaningful step forward.
