Federico Chiesa stood triumphant on the Wembley pitch, basking in the glory of Italy’s Euro 2020 triumph. The forward’s dazzling performances throughout the tournament had propelled him to the pinnacle of European football, earning him a permanent move to Juventus for a fee that could rise to €50m (£42.2m).
Fast forward three summers, and Chiesa’s career has taken an unexpected turn. The 26-year-old is now heading for the exit door at Juventus, with Liverpool exploring a move for the forward, who could be available for a mere €15m (£12.67m). So, what triggered this sudden decline?
Juventus’ Federico Chiesa was one of the stars of Euro 2020 as Italy won the tournament
Chiesa’s initial campaign with Juventus was nothing short of spectacular, with the forward scoring a match-winning goal against Chelsea in a Champions League group stage match. However, disaster struck in January 2022 when Chiesa suffered a serious knee injury, ruling him out for at least seven months.
The injury’s aftermath saw Chiesa struggle to regain his form and fitness. Although he made a comeback in November 2022, the forward managed only four goals in 33 appearances. The following season saw Chiesa battle with injuries again, but he eventually found his footing, scoring nine league goals – his best return in a Serie A campaign.
Chiesa’s form was inconsistent, but he remained a key player for Luciano Spalletti’s Italy, scoring twice in a crucial Euro 2024 qualifying win over North Macedonia. Despite this, new Juventus boss Thiago Motta wants to offload Chiesa, along with several other players, as part of a squad reshuffle.
Chiesa struggled for form and fitness upon his initial return from injury in November 2022
Chiesa’s reflections on his journey over the past two-and-a-half years were telling. “The injury slowed down my career,” he admitted. “But it taught me a lot. Before, I was probably a more instinctive, more impulsive player, and perhaps my game has changed a little, but not my speed.”
Despite his struggles, Chiesa remains optimistic, insisting he’s close to regaining his pre-injury form. However, with Juventus keen to move him on, the 26-year-old’s future hangs in the balance. Liverpool are reportedly weighing up a move for Chiesa, who could be available for a bargain price.
The Reds’ interest in Chiesa is understandable, given his undoubted talent and the opportunity to strengthen their attacking options. As the transfer window ticks down, it remains to be seen where Chiesa will end up, but one thing is certain – the Italian’s career is at a crossroads.