Andoni Iraola Should Take a Risk and Give Forgotten Liverpool Star a Chance
After finishing fifth in the Premier League last season, Liverpool faced a surprising downturn that cost Arne Slot his job. The club’s drop from champions to outside the top four stunned many, and despite Slot believing he would keep his position, it was clear a change was necessary.
Now with Andoni Iraola at the helm, Liverpool remain unbeaten across competitions but have yet to show their full potential. Iraola has preferred certain players, but there’s a growing sense that he should explore other options within the squad.
Federico Chiesa: A Forgotten Option
The current international break is unusually long, thanks to the UEFA Nations League, which means Liverpool won’t return to domestic play until October 11. While players stay fit with their national teams, injuries loom as a constant threat.
So far, luck has been on Liverpool's side regarding fitness, but recently they lost two key forwards—Cody Gakpo and Alexander Isak. With Hugo Ekitike still sidelined by injury, striker options are limited.
Opportunity Knocks for Chiesa
Though Jayden Danns and Lewis Koumas might fill in as strikers if needed, now seems like the perfect moment to try something different. Federico Chiesa, whose 2025-26 campaign has been plagued by injuries, could finally have his chance to shine at Anfield.
Primarily a winger, Chiesa’s speed may have dipped, but his knack for scoring remains. Surrounded by players like Rio Ngumoha and Victor Munoz, he might adapt well to a striking role. This shift could benefit both him and the team.
A Stop-Gap Solution with Potential
The idea of missing both Gakpo and Isak in the starting lineup is unsettling for Liverpool fans. Those two have been standout performers, with Gakpo contributing six goals so far, often delivering crucial points.
Still, if Liverpool want to compete seriously for the title, they must have quality backups who can step up without lowering the team’s standards. Every strong squad has depth in each position and adapts when key players are out.
Chiesa’s stint at Liverpool hasn’t gone smoothly, but if Iraola takes a chance on him as a striker, Chiesa could redeem himself and maybe save his career with the club.
