Chiesa: Embracing a New Chapter Under Iraola

Liverpool winger Federico Chiesa says his form at Anfield is steadily improving as he fights for a place in new head coach Andoni Iraola's tactical system. The Italian star joined Liverpool from Juventus in August 2024 for £12.5 million (around $16.6 million) but has yet to secure consistent playing time. Under former manager Arne Slot over two seasons, he started just twice in the Premier League.

However, in a pre-season friendly last Saturday in Nashville, Chiesa scored to help Liverpool beat Sunderland 4-2. He hopes to use this opportunity to write a new chapter at Anfield.

"We haven't started from scratch; we've been training with the new coach for two weeks," Chiesa said after the match. "We're gradually understanding his tactical philosophy. He emphasizes high-intensity pressing and one-on-one battles all over the pitch, which is exactly what we're trying to show in games. Pre-season is always tough, but we're heading in the right direction."

"Right now, I'm very happy at Liverpool. I love this club, the fans, and everything about it. I'm giving my all to earn an opportunity, and then we'll see what happens. For now, my only focus is Liverpool."

Asked whether Iraola's arrival marks a fresh start to his Liverpool career, Chiesa replied: "It's hard to say. Each season's start can be seen as a new beginning—maybe too many such beginnings. But I don't mind; I'm giving everything for this new coach. Last season under Slot, I also tried my best."

"Last year, I felt ready to take on more responsibility, but it was up to the coach whether I played. I certainly wanted more game time, but that's how it went. The manager makes the final call; he has his own vision and he made his decisions. I have no complaints. That's football."

"This year, let's call it a new chapter. A new coach has arrived, and I must stay fully focused on that. My only communication with Iraola has been about pressing and tactical instructions."

For Liverpool, last season was extremely difficult. They finished fifth on the final matchday, barely securing a Champions League spot. The team's underwhelming Premier League title defense prompted the club to sack Slot at the end of the season and appoint Iraola, aiming to inject a more aggressive and dynamic style into Anfield.

"Liverpool deserves more," Chiesa said. "Two years ago, we were Premier League champions. Last year, we almost dropped out of the Champions League places. We were fighting for fifth place, which was enough for Champions League qualification at the time, but as everyone knows, usually only the top four qualify."

"We were lucky. Last season was tough, and we need to do better this season, especially in the Champions League. We were knocked out by Paris Saint-Germain. We want to go further in that competition and show more competitiveness in the Premier League."