Federico Chiesa’s journey at Liverpool may soon come to an end. Despite sharing a harmonious relationship with teammates and management at Anfield, the Italian winger is determined to secure regular football elsewhere next season.
After enduring a frustrating, injury-hit campaign on Merseyside, Chiesa’s sights are firmly set on a return to Serie A, with reigning champions Napoli already making preliminary contact. His motivation is clear—more minutes on the pitch and a route back into Luciano Spalletti’s Italy plans ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Table of Contents
Napoli Initiate Talks Amid Serie A Reinforcement Plans
With Antonio Conte now at the helm, Napoli are determined to bolster their attacking lineup. According to SportItalia, the Serie A champions have outlined Chiesa as one of their primary targets in the transfer window. Conte reportedly seeks two dynamic wide players for his revamped tactical blueprint.
Their interest in Chiesa coincides with significant changes at the club. Belgian winger Cyril Ngonge could be heading for the exit door, while Swiss attacker Noah Okafor has already returned to AC Milan following the conclusion of his loan spell. In preparation for a challenging domestic and European campaign, Napoli are assembling fresh firepower—having already sealed a headline-grabbing move for Kevin De Bruyne on a free transfer.
Limited Opportunities Force Chiesa to Seek Change
Chiesa’s move from Juventus to Liverpool in the summer of 2024 was meant to rejuvenate his career, but fate had different plans. Plagued by persistent injury setbacks, the Italian international could only muster 104 minutes of Premier League action throughout the entire season. Liverpool may have lifted the domestic league title, but for Chiesa personally, it was a campaign of missed opportunities.
“Federico Chiesa’s desire remains to leave Liverpool and play on regular basis next season, despite his excellent relationship with everyone at the club,” reported SportItalia. While the player respects Liverpool’s decision-makers and dressing-room harmony, his overriding priority is clear—consistent playing time.
Competition Brewing: Real Betis and Milan Join the Race
While Napoli are currently leading the race, they are not the only ones monitoring Chiesa’s availability. AC Milan, familiar with Chiesa’s qualities from his Juventus days, have also explored a potential move. Real Betis from La Liga are another suitor, reportedly expressing interest in bringing the Italian to Spain in search of regular minutes.
Napoli’s advantage, however, lies in familiarity and opportunity. A return to Serie A, under a coach like Conte, combined with Champions League football, makes the Naples club a compelling destination.
Road to Redemption: 2026 World Cup in Focus
At 27, Chiesa knows that the next two years could define his international future. Once an indispensable part of Italy’s attacking setup—remembered for his heroics at UEFA Euro 2020—the winger has seen his national team appearances dwindle due to form and fitness issues.
A move back to Serie A, with a chance to regain sharpness and form under an Italian setup, is seen as the ideal route back into Gennaro Gattuso’s plans. The ambition is simple: to don the Azzurri shirt at the 2026 World Cup with pride and purpose.
FAQs
Why does Federico Chiesa want to leave Liverpool?
Chiesa is seeking a move away from Liverpool to secure regular playing time after a season disrupted by injuries, where he only managed 104 minutes in the Premier League.
Which clubs are interested in signing Federico Chiesa?
Napoli have already made contact regarding a potential transfer, while AC Milan and Real Betis have also shown interest in acquiring the Italian winger.
What makes Napoli a strong contender for Chiesa’s signature?
Napoli offer the prospect of regular minutes under Antonio Conte, Champions League football, and a return to familiar Serie A surroundings—all aligning with Chiesa’s goals.
How could a move help Chiesa’s international career?
By securing consistent game time in Italy, Chiesa hopes to boost his chances of returning to the national setup under Gennaro Gattuso ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Has Napoli made any other major signings this summer?
Yes, Napoli have already completed the free transfer of Kevin De Bruyne and are in advanced negotiations for USMNT midfielder Yunus Musah from AC Milan.