Attacker to hold talks with new manager Andoni Iraola before making a decision
Federico Chiesa has confessed he may need to leave Liverpool this summer in search of regular football, although he will have talks with new head coach Andoni Iraola before a decision is made.
The Italy international made only one Premier League start last season and acknowledged that a lack of playing time could force him to seek opportunities elsewhere. A return to Serie A is understood to be a realistic possibility, although Chiesa said he remains open to options outside Italy.
“I want to play and if I don’t find continuity in the Premier League I’ll need to find it elsewhere,” Chiesa told Gazzetta dello Sport. “I’ll go to the US for pre-season then I’ll talk to the club and Iraola and we’ll see.”
Liverpool are expected to assess their attacking options during the summer window and would be willing to listen to offers for Chiesa after a frustrating campaign in which opportunities were limited.
The 28-year-old said a January departure was ruled out because of circumstances in the squad, with injuries and international absences leaving the club short in forward areas.
“I’ve honestly not played a lot since the start of 2026,” Chiesa said. “Back in January the club and Slot said I couldn’t leave. They needed me. It was about numbers. We were in crisis.
“I understood the situation and stayed, keeping a smile on my face. We’re still talking about Liverpool. Last year they allowed me to win the Premier League.”
Chiesa’s comments come as Liverpool prepare for their first season under Iraola, who replaced Arne Slot following the club’s title-winning campaign. The winger suggested his future would depend largely on the role offered to him by the new manager during pre-season discussions.
The former Juventus forward also left the door open to a return to Turin, admitting he would welcome the chance to play again for his former club, although he would not dismiss interest from elsewhere in Serie A.
“The important thing for me is gametime,” Chiesa said. “I am not presumptuous enough to say: I have to be a starter. I am ready to fight for my place anywhere.”
Chiesa also commented on reports linking his Liverpool teammate Curtis Jones with a move to Italy.
“All he asked me was what life is like in Italy,” Chiesa said. “I told him it’s great and the weather is better than in Liverpool. Jones technically is a really good player. Inter do well to think about signing him.”
The Italy international was less convinced by speculation surrounding Alisson, who has been linked with Juventus, indicating he expects the Brazil goalkeeper to remain at Anfield.
“From what I hear, he’s staying in England,” Chiesa said. “We’re talking about one of the top five goalkeepers on the planet. He’s a fantastic leader. He’s won everything and makes the difference on the pitch and in the dressing room.”
