Chiesa stays at zero minutes: new manager not enough for Liverpool

While the change of manager at Liverpool seemed to open a new page for the Italian striker, Federico Chiesa continues to not see the pitch: he is still stuck at zero official minutes with the Reds' shirt, despite promises of more playing time from the new coach, Iraola.

In the summer, Chiesa expressed confidence in Iraola, hoping for more minutes compared to the previous management of Arne Slot. During the friendly against Sunderland he scored, stating that the year represents “a new chapter” with the new coach. “This year, we can say, is a new chapter. There is a new coach and I have to focus on that,” he said. For Chiesa, the new coach is the key to redeem himself.

Physical problems and Champions list

A physical problem keeps him out for another two weeks, according to the club. A possible return is expected after the international break, ahead of the clash against Manchester City.

In the meantime, Iraola has decided to exclude him from the UEFA list for the league phase of the Champions League, due to squad composition constraints.

It is the second consecutive exclusion from the Champions list: last season, under Slot, he was excluded before returning to the squad following Leoni's injury.

Last year I felt I was meant for a bigger role, he added, emphasizing the difference with the previous management.

The contrast between the expectations of a new chapter and the reality of missing minutes, injuries and exclusions shows that Chiesa's dream at Liverpool has not yet taken off, leaving his presence in the upcoming matches uncertain.