Every player aspires to be on the pitch as much as possible, placing added pressure on the head coach.
Whether he wants to admit it or not, Arne Slot has his preferred players within the Liverpool squad, frequently opting to field them while managing the risk of injury. For those who find themselves sidelined, dealing with this situation can be challenging—ready to step in when needed yet feeling excluded from the action.
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While it may not be entirely fair to say there is ‘sympathy’ for the first-team outsiders, considering they receive substantial salaries in exchange for participating in a few training sessions per week, their frustrations are valid. When your mindset is geared toward success—not only in contributing to the team’s efforts but also in achieving personal fulfillment—disappointment can arise.
In light of Slot’s approach, one Liverpool player has issued an ultimatum regarding his future, suggesting he may soon have to leave Merseyside.
Chiesa is RIGHT to feel slighted
Federico Chiesa‘s struggles last season were well-documented, characterized by injuries and fitness challenges, along with difficulties in making a significant impact when he did play.
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However, the 28-year-old was signed in 2024 on a four-year deal, creating a strong incentive for Liverpool to keep him involved. This season, he has shown promising form on the pitch.
In 390 minutes on the field, he has scored two goals and provided three assists, despite going without a goal contribution in his last seven appearances spanning 219 minutes. Even with his recent dip in form, he maintains an impressive average of 78 minutes per goal or assist.
The issue lies in the fact that across 14 appearances this season, he has only started two games—both in the Carabao Cup against Southampton and Crystal Palace.
Considering Mohamed Salah occupies his preferred right-wing position, this isn’t entirely unexpected. Nonetheless, the Reds have only four other senior forwards in their ranks, especially since Rio Ngumoha is just 17 years old.
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Moreover, Salah did not feature at all during Liverpool’s recent match against West Ham.
When given a golden chance to grant Chiesa a rare starting opportunity, Slot opted not to field a right-winger at all. This choice strongly suggests Chiesa’s future with the team is uncertain.
As it stands, speculation points to a significant opportunity for Chiesa to renew his role in the squad when Salah departs for the AFCON tournament on December 16.
However, what evidence supports the notion that Chiesa will be given this chance? The strategy for the team’s success in Salah’s absence was demonstrated against West Ham, yet Chiesa was overlooked.
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Logic suggests that Chiesa may receive more opportunities with fewer players available, but there is no guarantee he will be adequately supported. A significant change in Slot’s approach would be required, and given we’re already four months into the season, that seems unlikely.
Fabrizio Romano recently confirmed that Chiesa is eager for more playing time, and Italian clubs may pursue him in January if his situation does not improve. At that time, both Liverpool and Chiesa desired to maintain their collaboration, but progress has stalled. With the World Cup approaching at the season’s end, greater involvement is critical.
Securing a deal in January may be challenging, but it appears Slot does not need Chiesa in his plans, leaving all possibilities open. Players have successfully pushed for transfers in the past—think of Alexander Isak—and it would hardly be unreasonable for Chiesa to seek a way out of his current predicament. Fans are eager to see him play more frequently, and if that requires a transfer, so be it.