Federico Chiesa is currently a dynamic forward for Liverpool FC and the Italian national team, having completed a high-profile transfer from Juventus in the summer of 2024. Known for his explosive pace, versatile two-footed finishing, and relentless work rate, Chiesa has successfully revitalized his career in the Premier League after overcoming a series of significant knee injuries. As of early 2026, he is a vital component of Arne Slot’s attacking rotation, primarily operating as a right-winger but capable of playing across the entire frontline.
2026 Liverpool Career Status
As of February 2026, Federico Chiesa has solidified his place as a fan favorite at Anfield, often serving as the primary alternative to Mohamed Salah. Following his £10 million initial move, Chiesa’s value has tripled due to his consistent performances in both the Premier League and the Champions League. His ability to provide high-intensity pressing makes him the ideal “Slot-era” winger, fitting the Dutch manager’s preference for rapid transitions.
The 2025-26 season has seen Chiesa take on a leadership role among the younger attackers, such as Ben Doak and Harvey Elliott. While he struggled with minor fitness setbacks in late 2024, his 2025 medical record shows a 90% availability rate, silencing critics who labeled him “injury-prone.” He remains under contract at Liverpool until June 2028, earning an estimated £150,000 per week.
Tactical Evolution Under Slot
Under Arne Slot, Chiesa has transitioned from a pure touchline winger to an “inverted playmaker.“ He is frequently tasked with cutting inside from the right onto his stronger left foot, creating space for overlapping full-backs. This tactical shift has seen his assist numbers spike, as he now focuses as much on final-third chance creation as he does on direct goalscoring.
Slot has praised Chiesa’s “defensive intelligence,” noting that his experience in the disciplined tactical environment of Serie A allows him to lead Liverpool’s counter-press effectively. By occupying the half-spaces, Chiesa draws defenders out of position, which has been crucial in breaking down the “low block” defenses often faced by Liverpool in 2026.
The ACL Injury Recovery
The defining moment of Chiesa’s career was his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear sustained in January 2022 against Roma. This injury sidelined him for nearly ten months and required a secondary surgery to clean up inflammation in late 2023. His journey back to full speed involved a total overhaul of his running gait to reduce stress on his left knee.
Medical experts at the J-Medical center and later the AXA Training Centre utilized advanced biomechanical mapping to ensure Chiesa regained his 35km/h top speed without risking a relapse. This recovery period is now cited as a case study in athletic perseverance, as Chiesa spent over 300 days in isolated rehabilitation before returning to peak European competition.
Early Life in Florence
Federico Chiesa’s journey began in the youth ranks of Fiorentina, the club where his father, Enrico, also achieved legendary status. He made his professional debut in August 2016 against Juventus, ironically the club he would later join for a record fee. During his time at the Stadio Artemio Franchi, he developed his trademark “snarling” style of play—a mix of extreme aggression and technical elegance.
His rise in Florence was meteoric, scoring 34 goals in 153 appearances for La Viola. This period was crucial for his development as it allowed him to play through mistakes and build the physical resilience required for the top flight. By the time he left for Juventus in 2020, he was already considered the brightest talent in Italian football.
Role in the Azzurri
Chiesa remains the “spiritual engine” of the Italian national team (the Azzurri) as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup. His performances during the Euro 2020 tournament, particularly his goals against Austria and Spain, cemented his status as a national hero. In the current 2026 setup under Luciano Spalletti, he is often the first name on the team sheet when fit.
Spalletti utilizes Chiesa as a “freelance” attacker, giving him the liberty to switch wings mid-game to exploit the weaker of the opposition’s full-backs. As Italy looks to redeem their recent World Cup qualifying heartbreaks, Chiesa’s experience and big-game temperament are viewed as indispensable for the national team’s success.
Practical Information and Planning
Liverpool Matchday Experience
- Location: Anfield Stadium, Liverpool, UK.
- Ticket Prices: Range from £37 for local general sale to over £400 for hospitality packages.
- How to get there: The 917 bus from Liverpool City Centre is the most direct transport route to the stadium on matchdays.
What to Expect
When watching Chiesa live at Anfield, expect a player who never stops moving. Unlike some modern wingers who “wait” for the ball, Chiesa is constantly hunting for interceptions. His interaction with the Kop after a successful tackle or goal has made him one of the most photographed players of the 2025-26 season.
Tips for Fans
- Training Access: Fans can occasionally see Chiesa during open training sessions at the AXA Training Centre in Kirkby, usually during international breaks.
- Merchandise: His number 14 jersey is currently a top-three seller in the official Liverpool online store.
Commercial Profile and Sponsorships
Off the pitch, Federico Chiesa is a major global ambassador for brands like Nike, Hublot, and EA Sports. As of 2026, his marketability has surged following his move to the Premier League, making him the most “marketable” Italian athlete alongside tennis star Jannik Sinner. His clean-cut image and fluency in English (honed during his time at an International School in Florence) have allowed him to bridge the gap between Italian and English-speaking markets.
He is the face of Nike’s “Mercurial” boot line in Italy, a testament to his reputation for speed. Furthermore, his digital presence on platforms like Instagram serves as a hub for his philanthropic work, particularly with children’s hospitals in Tuscany. His move to Liverpool has also opened doors to massive sponsorship opportunities in the Asian market, where Liverpool maintains a colossal fan base.
Training and Nutrition Regimen
To sustain his explosive style post-ACL recovery, Chiesa adheres to a strict “longevity” diet and training protocol. His daily routine includes 90 minutes of “pre-hab” focused on eccentric hamstring loading and glute activation to protect his knees. Nutritionally, he follows a Mediterranean-plus diet, rich in Omega-3 fatty acids to reduce systemic inflammation, which is vital for a player with his injury history.
He also utilizes cryotherapy and hyperbaric oxygen therapy following every matchday. This professional discipline is what allowed him to transition to the “heavy metal” football of the Premier League at age 27 without a drop in physical output. His commitment to recovery is so intense that teammates often joke he spends more time in the physio room than in his own living room.
Practical Information: Watching Chiesa in 2026
Merchandise and Kits
- Official Jersey: Liverpool 2025/26 Home Kit with “CHIESA 14” printing.
- Pricing: Standard Stadium Shirt (~£80), Authentic Player Version (~£125).
- Where to Buy: Official Liverpool FC stores at Anfield, Williamson Square, or the online Global Store.
Travel and Match Attendance
If traveling from Italy to see Federico play, several budget airlines operate direct flights from Florence or Pisa to Liverpool John Lennon Airport. For those looking to experience the atmosphere, “The Albert” pub next to Anfield is the primary gathering spot for fans to sing the “Chiesa” chant before kickoff.
FAQs
Why did Federico Chiesa leave Juventus for Liverpool?
In 2024, Juventus was looking to refresh their squad under new management, and Chiesa sought a new challenge in a league that suited his high-intensity style. Liverpool provided the perfect tactical fit under Arne Slot.
What is Federico Chiesa’s top speed?
He has been clocked at a top speed of 35.1 km/h (21.8 mph), making him one of the fastest players in the Liverpool squad as of 2026.
Does Chiesa speak English?
Yes, Federico is fluent in English. He attended the International School of Florence as a child, which has helped him integrate seamlessly into the Liverpool dressing room.
How many goals did he score at Euro 2020?
He scored two vital goals: one against Austria in the Round of 16 and another against Spain in the Semi-Final, earning him a spot in the Team of the Tournament.
Is Chiesa married?
Federico married his longtime partner, Lucia Bramani, in a ceremony in Tuscany in 2024.
What number does Chiesa wear for Liverpool?
He wears the number 14, the same number he wore during his breakout seasons at Juventus and with the Italian national team.
How many ACL injuries has he had?
He has suffered one major ACL tear (January 2022). All subsequent absences have been minor muscular issues or “clean-up” procedures related to that initial injury.
What is Federico Chiesa’s net worth in 2026?
His estimated net worth is approximately £35 million – £40 million, comprised of his playing salary and lucrative endorsement deals.
Which foot is Chiesa’s strongest?
While he is naturally right-footed, he is considered one of the most “two-footed” players in Europe, capable of crossing and shooting with high accuracy using his left foot.
Is he the best Italian player in the Premier League?
As of 2026, he is widely considered the most impactful Italian player in the league, alongside stars like Sandro Tonali and Destiny Udogie.
What is the “Chiesa Chant” at Anfield?
Set to a classic Italian melody, the chant celebrates his Italian heritage and his “lightning” pace down the wing.
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