Federico Chiesa is itching to write a new chapter at Liverpool, and it's a story he can hardly believe has been delayed. Two seasons on, the Italy international still yearns to unleash his full throttle at Anfield, and a change of guard under Andoni Iraola might just be the catalyst for a dramatic turnaround.
The numbers tell a tale of woe – 36 appearances last season, but just five from the start. His last Premier League start? A distant memory, dating back to February's FA Cup fourth-round win against Brighton. Yet Chiesa remains steadfast in his conviction that he's ready for more: "Last season under Arne Slot, I was giving it my all. But at times, it felt like I was stuck in neutral – waiting for the coach to decide whether I'd get a drive or not. Of course, I wanted to be behind the wheel, but that's just how it played out."
The transfer speculation surrounding his future has been a nagging presence, with Como and Juventus reportedly circling. But Chiesa is resolute in his commitment: "Right now, at this moment, Liverpool's where I am happy – the club, the fans, the lot. I'm giving it my all to stay on course here. And then we'll see what the future holds."
Chiesa also took aim at last season's patchy performances, which saw the Reds snatch Champions League qualification on the final day. "Liverpool deserves so much better," he said candidly. "Two years ago, we were champions of England. Last year, we nearly slipped out of the top four – it was a nail-biter. We scraped fifth spot by the skin of our teeth. A bit of luck, if you ask me."
The change in management may have sparked hope for Chiesa. Although he's yet to discuss his long-term future with Iraola, initial chats have centred on tactics: "We talked about pressing and positions – nothing more, nothing less. And when I played up front against Sunderland, I felt like I was finally driving with the engine revved."