‘Last year was really difficult’ - Chiesa opens up on career at Liverpool and plans to be successful

The Italy international has impressed this season, with some good performances. On Tuesday, he provided assists for both Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike in the Carabao Cup fourth-round victory.

Chiesa proudly clutched his Player of the Match award after the 2-1 win over Southampton, feeling he had contributed more in five appearances this season than he did in his entire first year on Merseyside. 

However, despite his performance, Liverpool manager Arne Slot left Chiesa out of Liverpool’s Champions League squad.

Speaking at length to the media for the first time since his £10 million move from Juventus in August 2024, Chiesa frankly and engagingly articulated his determination to win over his doubters and continue making an impact for the team.

"Last year was really difficult, but I don’t think I was at the level the coach wanted me to play," said Chiesa, as reported by Daily Mail.

"But I understood his choices. This year is different. I feel much better physically and mentally. The coach has seen this and given me more opportunities.

"I’m glad I’ve made some contributions in the Premier League. That is what Liverpool want from every player. It is what the coach wants, and all the other players want it too. If you play for Liverpool, you have to be able to make a difference.

"I’m very happy at the moment and I have to keep working hard to get more chances. I play for a top club, maybe one of the top three in the world. It’s Liverpool – of course they are going to buy top players, and of course, the competition is high.

"If I didn’t want competition, I’d go to another team. But I want the competition! I want to play here, and I think, at the end of the day, competition helps you become a better player. The coach gave me chances in the first four games, and I think I showed I can help the team."

Another opportunity is likely to come for Chiesa this weekend after Ekitike’s senseless red card against Southampton, with Liverpool taking a trip to Crystal Palace.