Federico Chiesa issues come-and-get-me plea to Juventus as Liverpool outcast targets return to Italy squad for 2026 World Cup

Chiesa’s first season in the Premier League has not gone according to plan. After arriving from Juventus in a discounted deal, the Italian international struggled to make an impact at Liverpool under Arne Slot. He clocked less than 500 minutes in all competitions and was handed just a single league start, in a relatively meaningless match against Brighton that took place after the Reds had already sealed the league title.

Chiesa’s difficulties in adapting to English football were exacerbated by the fact that he missed last summer’s pre-season entirely. Arriving late and unprepared, he was never able to fully integrate into Slot’s tactical setup or reach peak physical condition. The winger believes that starting the upcoming pre-season on July 8, when the Liverpool squad reconvenes, could offer him a chance to reset and push for a more prominent role.

Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport, Chiesa said: "I work every day with a Liverpool program to be at my best for the tests on July 8."

Though his current focus remains on preparing for the new campaign, Chiesa did not shy away from expressing his affection for Juventus, the club where he made his name and enjoyed significant success.

"Juventus? I still love the club. Returning there one day? Why not..." Chiesa said. "Thiago Motta didn’t want me there. He told me that I was not part of his plans, and should go find a team."

Chiesa’s ultimate goal is clear: a return to the Italy national team. After missing out on recent squads, he is determined to force his way back in before the 2026 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

"My future? I miss the blue shirt, I dream of playing in the World Cup," he admitted.

A move away from Anfield this summer appears increasingly likely if Chiesa wants regular minutes. With competition fierce at Liverpool, and the Italian having failed to break into the starting eleven in his first year, it would take a remarkable pre-season to convince Slot to alter his plans.

Juventus aren’t the only club monitoring Chiesa’s situation. Napoli and AC Milan have both been linked with the winger in recent months, while fresh reports this week have suggested that Spanish side Atletico Madrid are also interested in securing his services. His next move may well determine whether he earns a seat on the plane to North America in 2026, should Italy qualify.