Federico Chiesa against Southampton was one of the star players in the Liverpool vs Southampton clash, which ended in favour of Liverpool, with a 2-1 result on Tuesday, September 23, at the EFL Cup. The 27-year-old Italian has largely been a fringe player in the Reds’ Premier League-winning campaign last season.
He played in only 14 matches last season, but has already made five appearances for his club this season. Chiesa registered two assists against Southampton to play a key role in Liverpool’s win. Arne Slot’s men have now played in seven matches this season across all competitions and have won each of those.
Winning multiple titles this season will definitely be on Liverpool’s agenda. However, for that to happen, they will need squad depth. Players like Chiesa will have to step up to keep their team very competitive in all competitions in the current season.
How Federico Chiesa Fits Into Liverpool
Chiesa’s first touch was superb before he played the pass to Hugo Ekitike for Liverpool’s match-winner against Southampton.
Chiesa, who exhibited his class in winning the European Championships in 2021 with the Italian national team, scored 32 goals in 131 matches for Juventus before coming to Liverpool. He enjoyed a loan spell to the Bianconeri from Fiorentina for a couple of seasons and proved himself to be one of Juventus’ star players, and is now shining in England.
The problem for Chiesa at Liverpool has been the fact that Mohamed Salah plays on the right flank for them. As Salah is almost undroppable, Chiesa has primarily gotten his opportunities as a substitute only.
Salah is 33 now, but is supremely fit. Hence, the chances of the Egyptian suffering an injury are also less. Therefore, the only option for Chiesa is to shine in matches of less importance, in which Salah might be rested.
Hugo Ekitike, who was shown a red card against Southampton, will not be available in Liverpool’s next league match against Crystal Palace. Therefore, it might be another opportunity for the Italian to start and make his presence felt. However, in that scenario, he might have to play as a left-winger in Ekitike’s absence.
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Federico Chiesa Against Southampton: Form That Can Be Carried On?
At 27, Chiesa should be hankering for more game time for his club. He has played in only 19 matches for Liverpool so far, which is certainly not enough. Chiesa’s contract with the Reds runs until 2028, which means that he has to ensure playing in more matches for them.
Otherwise, he will have to take a way out by ensuring a loan move to any other club at the end of the current season or even in the January transfer window. As long as Salah is there with the Reds, Chiesa’s chances of playing matches for Liverpool will still be considerably less.
However, a lot can change during a season, and if the Italian manages to perform well in the ongoing one, he might very well prove himself to be indispensable for his current team. Especially considering his performance in the Liverpool vs Southampton game.
It remains to be seen whether Chiesa will be able to carry that form forward, but the beginning has certainly been good for the Italian.
Main Photo
Credit: IMAGO / Sportsphoto
Recording Date: 23.09.2025