Arne Slot Celebrates Federico Chiesa's Return
Today at 02:00 PM
The player has finally returned from injury to score in the FA Cup third victory against Accrington Stanley.
Liverpool kicked off their 2025 FA Cup run comfortably with a 4-0 home win against Accrington Stanley. While doing so, they also got to provide their promising Academy players with first team experience. Today youngsters like Tyler Morton, Rio Ngumoha, and Jayden Danns all go the opportunity to play alongside the more seasoned veterans.
Another big success was the return of Federico Chiesa. Chiesa arrived at the club in the summer, but has been unlucky in the injury department. His second half appearance also allowed him to open his account with the Reds, scoring the team's fourth goal in the 90th. minute.
After the match, Head Coach Arne Slot was asked about his return and had a fond yet realistic take on seeing Chiesa score his first.
"Rio was lucky that Federico wasn't with us in the last two days – because he was sick – otherwise Federico would have started, of course," Slot said. "Now he could play 45. We could bring Dom [Szoboszlai] 45 minutes, bring him out and then Federico [in]. It's nice to make your debut and if you have played for this club already then you want to score your first goal, especially in front of your own fans."
Despite his solid 45 minutes and his goal, Slot made sure not to put too many expectations on him upon his return.
"Let's not get carried away too much because although I liked the way Accrington Stanley played, a lot, it is in the end a League Two team," he cautioned. "But it's definitely a good next step for him to be available and even score a goal."
With the hectic festive period over and the injury list currently short, Slot should have the time to ease Chiesa into the team now that he's fit to contribute. It will be a tough road for the Italian to fight his way into a permanent position up front, given his current competition. Hopefully he will stay fully fit for long enough to give it his best shot.
