Federico Chiesa: The Anfield cult hero who deserves a bigger role

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## Federico Chiesa: The Anfield Cult Hero Who Deserves a Bigger Role Federico Chiesa, a talent honed in Italy, has emerged as a cult hero at Liverpool. Despite his pedigree as a European champion and proven Serie A performer, Chiesa has faced challenges in his first year at Anfield, including limited playing time, injuries, and tactical adjustments. His move to Liverpool in August 2024 was seen as a significant coup for the Reds, but his role has been more peripheral than expected. ### Club Career at Liverpool Chiesa joined Liverpool on a long-term deal worth £10 million plus £2.5 million in add-ons, marking a new chapter in his career[1]. Initially, he struggled to secure consistent minutes, often appearing as a substitute. Notable performances included scoring his first goal for Liverpool in an FA Cup match against Accrington Stanley and contributing in the EFL Cup final against Newcastle United[1]. Despite these highlights, Chiesa's Premier League appearances have been limited, with only a handful of games played. However, he secured a Premier League winner's medal in the 2024-25 season, becoming the second Italian after Mario Balotelli to achieve this feat[1]. ### Contribution and Potential Chiesa's contributions, though sporadic, have been impactful. He scored his first Premier League goal for Liverpool in a match against Bournemouth, securing a crucial victory[1]. His ability to make a difference in big moments has earned him a special status among fans. ### Challenges and Omissions Chiesa's limited playing time has also affected his international prospects. He was omitted from the Italian national team for not feeling "100% fit," a decision that aligns with his goal to be fully ready for future matches[3]. Despite these challenges, Chiesa remains a talented player who could benefit from more opportunities to showcase his skills. ### Conclusion Federico Chiesa's journey at Liverpool is a testament to his resilience and potential. As he seeks a more prominent role, his past achievements and the admiration he's garnered from fans underscore the possibility that he could become more than just a cult hero at Anfield. With fitness and opportunities aligning, Chiesa could yet prove himself as an integral part of the Reds' squad.