"He could feature" – Slot gives Federico Chiesa update but start depends on teammate

Arne Slot has provided a positive update on Federico Chiesa's availability ahead of Liverpool's FA Cup third-round clash with Barnsley at Anfield, confirming the Italian forward "could feature" but that any start hinges on teammate Hugo Ekitike's fitness.[4]

Speaking in his pre-match press conference on Sunday, the Liverpool head coach addressed Chiesa's role amid ongoing speculation about the 28-year-old's future at the club. Chiesa, who joined from Juventus last summer, has struggled for consistent starts under Slot, making just seven in 34 appearances across all competitions this season, with four goals and five assists.[1] His limited minutes have fueled transfer rumors, particularly a potential loan return to Juventus in January, though Liverpool are reluctant to let him go with injuries to Alexander Isak (out 2-3 months) and others like Conor Bradley and Ekitike.[1][3]

Slot emphasized Chiesa's versatility, noting he can cover every attacking position and has been impactful as a substitute. "Every player has a possibility to start, but we have many options," Slot said previously, hinting at Chiesa's potential as a No. 9 option with Ekitike sidelined.[3] The Dutchman added that Chiesa could even play centrally to manage fatigue in other forwards.

The timing is key: Mohamed Salah is away at the Africa Cup of Nations (Egypt face Ivory Coast in the quarter-finals), leaving Liverpool short on attacking depth.[3] Reports suggest no final decision on Chiesa's future until after Salah's return post-AFCON on January 18, with Juventus eyeing a season-long loan to aid his 2026 World Cup hopes.[1]

Despite interest from Serie A, Chiesa has shown no desire for a permanent move back, and Slot values his bench influence. Against Barnsley on Monday night, Chiesa's involvement offers a chance to stake his claim amid the uncertainty.[2][3] Liverpool, top of the Premier League, aim to progress in the cup while managing squad rotation.

(Word count: 298)