From Liverpool fringes to centre stage: Federico Chiesa must seize chance at Juventus return

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Liverpool’s Federico Chiesa is closely linked with a return to Juventus. The Bianconeri are growing closer to signing the familiar figure in a loan deal that includes an obligation to buy.

Chiesa moved to the Premier League in August of 2024 in a deal reportedly worth £10 million plus £2.5 million in add-ons. While he was seen as a relatively discounted option for depth, it hasn’t looked like working out.

With continued injury struggles and sporadic bench involvement affecting his form, Chiesa now appears to be heading out the Anfield exit door. While his will likely be filed amongst the league’s extensive backlog of unsuccessful stints, this Merseyside rain cloud does have a silver lining – and that’s a return to the Old Lady’s warm embrace.

In what was another time in his career punctuated by injury, the winger still managed to end his time in Turin with a personal high of nine goals in 33 Serie A appearances. If he can pick up where he left off, he’ll no doubt soar back into contention as a fan favourite. Furthermore, offering some experience and insight to the likes of Kenan Yildiz will no doubt help.

In theory, Chiesa looks to return to Juve just at the right time. For both his club and international career…

Although Luciano Spalletti has insisted that his side aren’t yet on the same level as Inter or Napoli, this looks to be partly manager speak.

Juventus are currently fourth, sitting a point off second, and four from the top of the pile. Chiesa has the chance to step up and be an important player in a Spalletti project that is steadily taking shape. Plus, consistent exposure in an exciting set-up would likely blast him firmly back into Gennaro Gattuso’s thoughts, especially after the Azzurri boss previously suggested he should return to Italy.

For proper context, since the beginning of November, when the former Napoli boss took over, only Inter (with 25 points and eight wins) have collected more points and won more matches in Serie A than the Bianconeri (24 points and seven wins).

No team has scored more goals in the league than Juventus (20, the same as Inter) since Spalletti’s arrival, too. With a chance to bask in the new manager’s wake, get involved and benefit within this new style, Chiesa must jump at this move as one that could re-energise his career.

GIFN | Max Bradfield