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Federico Chiesa was Liverpool’s unlikely hero on the Premier League’s opening night.

Chiesa has had a difficult year with the Reds, having been restricted to just 14 appearances during his debut campaign.

However, the Italian has continued to work hard, and has won the affection of just about every Liverpool supporter.

Arne Slot hailed Chiesa after Friday night’s win over Bournemouth, touching on just how popular the forward is with the Anfield crowd.

But it is not just supporters who are desperate to see Chiesa succeed with the Reds.

The reaction from the Liverpool squad to his goal was touching to witness.

And while speaking to LFCTV after the game, captain Virgil van Dijk explained exactly what he and his teammates really think of Chiesa.

Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images

In some ways, it feels as though Chiesa has never truly arrived at Liverpool.

Despite being a big-name arrival in 2024, his lack of appearances made him feel like something of an outcast.

Nevertheless, the 27-year-old is a Premier League champion, and has integrated himself brilliantly into the team.

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Despite his lack of minutes, what shines through with Chiesa is that he is a real part of the team.

Van Dijk confirmed this when asked for his thoughts on the man who got the winner on Friday.

“He works so hard, he’s a great character, we all love him,” said the Dutch defender.

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“Very pleased for him, especially on a night like this when there are so many things on everyone’s mind, because you can’t escape that.

“I’m pleased for him, pleased for the team that we managed to get the three points, now we move on.”

After his match-winning moment, Chiesa admitted that he’d be happy to stay at Liverpool despite plenty of rumours linking him with a move.

And in his own post-match interview with LFCTV, it really shone through just how much the Italy international is enjoying being a Liverpool player.

“I love the club,” he smiled, when asked about supporters continuously singing his song during matches.

I feel the passion of the fans, I feel the energy, playing at Anfield is mesmerizing, just incredible, and I’m so happy to be here.”

Whether this was the start of his Liverpool career proper or simply a perfect goodbye, the moment will live long in Anfield folklore and comes as a well-earnt reward for Chiesa and his patience.