Slot Faces Chiesa Questions as Juventus Return Nears
Liverpool head coach Arne Slot is under renewed scrutiny as Federico Chiesa edges closer to an early exit from Anfield, with the winger’s former mentor openly questioning why a player seen as ideal for the Premier League was largely overlooked.
Chiesa’s brief spell in England now appears to be nearing its end, less than 18 months after his arrival on Merseyside. Reports from Italy suggest talks are advancing over a return to Juventus, turning the spotlight on Slot’s handling of the Italian international during a season in which he made only four starts from 21 appearances in all competitions.
The debate intensified after comments from Maurizio Romei, president and coach of Settignanese, the club where Chiesa began his career. Having followed his development from youth football to European champion, Romei expressed surprise that Chiesa never became a regular feature in Liverpool’s attacking plans despite his professionalism and profile.
Chiesa joined Liverpool with a reputation built on pace, direct running, and decisive end product. At 28, he was expected to add depth and unpredictability to an already competitive forward line. Instead, his limited minutes under Slot have raised questions, particularly as Liverpool push through a demanding campaign while Juventus move quickly to bring him back to Serie A.
From the outside, Chiesa’s season followed a familiar pattern. Brief cameos, sporadic starts, and long stretches spent watching from the bench. The Premier League’s open tempo appeared suited to his style, yet Liverpool’s attacking rhythm rarely included him, even as rotation opportunities emerged across competitions.
Romei acknowledged the competition posed by established stars, notably Mohamed Salah, but dismissed the idea that selection choices were purely tactical rotation. Minor injuries disrupted momentum, but not to an extent that explained Chiesa’s prolonged absence. Off the pitch, there were no reported issues, and his relationship with teammates remained strong.
When Chiesa did feature, his impact was often immediate. Direct runs, sharp movement, and visible confidence hinted at what could have been. Romei pointed to the reaction of teammates during his rare goals and contributions as evidence that the winger retained trust within the squad, even if opportunities were scarce.
As the season progressed, the likelihood of a reset became clearer. Juventus emerged as the most realistic destination, offering familiarity and a clear pathway back to prominence. Napoli were also mentioned as a possible fit, but Turin holds an advantage in environment and expectations, factors Romei believes could reignite Chiesa’s best form.
With World Cup playoffs approaching, the urgency has increased. Regular football is essential if Chiesa is to reestablish himself in the Italy setup. A return to Serie A would provide that platform, and Juventus are keen to conclude negotiations swiftly during what have been described as decisive hours.
For Liverpool, Chiesa’s impending departure will leave lingering questions about a signing that never fully aligned with Slot’s system. For Juventus, it represents an opportunity to welcome back a motivated forward eager to prove his talent remains undimmed. As the transfer draws closer, the focus shifts from what might have been at Anfield to what Chiesa can still become back in familiar surroundings.