Federico Chiesa’s exclusion from Liverpool’s squad to face Leicester City has left fans scratching their heads, with the Italian not even making the bench despite being fit.
Since his £12.5 million switch from Juventus, expectations around Chiesa were measured. No one expected him to walk into the starting XI, but what’s raised eyebrows is how rarely he’s even been used off the bench.
After a stop-start season due to injury, many thought his sharp cameos in recent weeks would earn him more opportunities. Instead, against Leicester, Chiesa was left out entirely from the 20-man matchday squad.
This decision comes as Trent Alexander-Arnold returned to the bench after injury, pushing Chiesa out of the lineup, according to the Liverpool Echo. He’s not injured, just not selected.
Also read: Arne Slot opens up on what Van Dijk is ‘so, so good’ at
Chiesa and Liverpool: Is the Italian being overlooked?
It’s not the first time Chiesa has been sidelined without a clear reason. Earlier this season, repeated injury setbacks and fitness concerns made his absence understandable.
But now, with the winger back to full fitness and showing glimpses of form, fans are starting to ask questions.
Particularly confusing is the continued selection of Darwin Nunez, who has struggled with consistency and has even been benched for poor work rate in recent weeks, while Chiesa remains unused.
If Liverpool plan to bring in attacking reinforcements in the upcoming window, it wouldn’t be surprising if Chiesa considers his future.
He’s clearly not part of the first-choice plans at the moment, and another summer on the sidelines may be a dealbreaker for the 26-year-old.
Should Liverpool be doing more with Chiesa? Has he done enough to deserve more minutes? What do you think, Reds?
Also read: Former Liverpool star reveals truth behind leaving Anfield