Federico Chiesa Faces Liverpool Exit as Italy Boss Gattuso Warns on Game Time

Federico Chiesa’s future at Liverpool is under serious doubt. The Italian winger has struggled for minutes since his summer move. This has prompted a stark warning from Italy’s national team coach, Rino Gattuso.

Gattuso publicly criticized Chiesa’s situation ahead of crucial World Cup qualifiers. He stated the player cannot afford to waste the season on the bench. The comments add intense pressure to a tense club-versus-country standoff.

A Promising Move Turns Sour

Chiesa joined Liverpool from Juventus last August. The transfer fee was reported to be around €12 million. It was seen as a bargain for a player of his calibre and experience.

His time on Merseyside has been frustratingly limited, however. According to reports from Italy, Chiesa has started just two matches. He has mostly featured in cup competitions, totaling under 200 minutes of action.

This lack of playing time is now a major issue. Italy faces vital 2026 World Cup qualification play-offs in March. Gattuso needs his key attackers sharp and ready, not rusty from inactivity.

Gattuso’s Blunt Ultimatum to Chiesa

The Italy manager did not hold back in his assessment. According to Football Italia, Gattuso said Chiesa “threw away the first part of the season.” He suggested the player may have chosen the wrong club last summer.

Gattuso’s message was unequivocal. He emphasized that Chiesa must now think of his career and his national team. Regular football is non-negotiable for a player hoping to lead Italy to the World Cup.

This public critique is highly unusual. It signals deep concern within the Italian football federation. They view Chiesa as indispensable for their qualification hopes.

The Stalemate at Anfield and Serie A Interest

A January departure from Liverpool is now a real possibility. Several top Serie A clubs are monitoring the situation closely. Inter Milan, AS Roma, and AC Milan have all been linked with a move.

A major obstacle is Chiesa’s high salary. Italian reports note his wages are a significant barrier for most interested clubs. Despite this, the potential for a cut-price deal or a loan exists if Liverpool agrees.

For now, Chiesa remains committed to fighting for his place. The upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, which will see Mo Salah depart, could offer a brief window. It may be his last chance to prove himself to manager Arne Slot.

Federico Chiesa’s Liverpool career hangs in the balance as club loyalty clashes with national duty. Gattuso’s warning has set a clear deadline: play regularly by January or risk your World Cup dream.

Info at your fingertips

How many minutes has Federico Chiesa played for Liverpool?

Chiesa has played fewer than 200 minutes for Liverpool since his summer transfer. Most of his appearances have been from the bench or in domestic cup matches.

Which clubs want to sign Chiesa from Liverpool?

Serie A giants Inter Milan, AS Roma, and AC Milan are all reportedly interested. A move would depend on agreeing a deal with Liverpool and matching Chiesa’s substantial wages.

Why is Italy coach Rino Gattuso so concerned?

Italy has critical World Cup qualification play-offs in March 2025. Gattuso fears Chiesa will lack match fitness and sharpness if he continues to sit on Liverpool’s bench.

Could Mo Salah’s AFCON absence help Chiesa?

Yes. Salah’s temporary departure in January will open up playing time in Liverpool’s attack. This period could be crucial for Chiesa to stake his claim for a regular starting role.

What was Chiesa’s transfer fee to Liverpool?

Liverpool signed Federico Chiesa from Juventus for a reported fee of €12 million in the summer of 2024. This was considered a low-risk, high-reward deal at the time.