Michael Owen has praised Liverpool’s latest signing, Federico Chiesa, following the Italy international’s impressive debut for the club. Chiesa joined the Reds from Juventus for a reported fee of £10m plus £2.5m in add-ons during the summer transfer window, becoming the team’s only acquisition for the current season. Despite suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury in January 2022 that sidelined him for 10 months, Chiesa has demonstrated his talent and potential on both the club and international stages.
Chiesa, who was a standout performer at the delayed Euro 2020 tournament, made 70 appearances for Juventus in his final two seasons at the club, scoring 14 goals. However, following the arrival of new manager Thiago Motta, he was allowed to leave the Turin giants and make the move to Liverpool. Owen believes that Chiesa’s departure from Juventus could ultimately benefit Liverpool, as the 26-year-old forward brings a wealth of experience and skill to the team.
Chiesa made his debut for Liverpool as a substitute in the Champions League victory against AC Milan, followed by a longer appearance in the Premier League win over Bournemouth. He then started his first game for the club in the Carabao Cup match against West Ham United, playing nearly an hour before being substituted. Despite his recent return to action, Chiesa has already shown glimpses of his quality on the field.
Owen, who won the Ballon d’Or during his time at Liverpool, expressed his admiration for Chiesa’s playing style and versatility. He believes that Chiesa’s experience and talent make him a valuable addition to the Liverpool squad, providing depth and competition in the team’s attacking options. While Chiesa may not be a regular starter initially, Owen emphasizes that his performances will determine his role in the team as the season progresses.
As Liverpool prepares for their upcoming match against Wolves, Chiesa’s presence adds another dimension to manager Arne Slot’s attacking lineup. With several forwards in top form, Slot faces a selection dilemma as he considers how best to utilize Chiesa’s skills and abilities on the field. The Italian forward’s integration into the team will be a key factor in Liverpool’s success moving forward.
In conclusion, Chiesa’s arrival at Liverpool has been met with optimism and excitement from fans and pundits alike. With his proven track record and potential to make a significant impact, Chiesa has the opportunity to shine at Anfield and contribute to the team’s pursuit of silverware. As he continues to settle in and adapt to his new surroundings, Chiesa’s development and progress will be closely monitored by both the club and its supporters. Liverpool’s investment in Chiesa could prove to be a wise one, as they look to strengthen their squad and compete at the highest level in domestic and European competitions.
