Arne Slot's BRUTAL handling of Liverpool star draws frustration

Arne Slot has drawn frustration from one international name with his use of a Liverpool star. Things could be changing, however.

Arne Slot took over as Liverpool head coach in June 2024 and the Reds only gave him one new player that summer: Federico Chiesa. Other than him, it was entirely Jurgen Klopp's squad.

The Dutchman went on to do something truly incredible by winning the Premier League in his debut campaign with a squad that wasn't really his. What was extra notable, too, is that he barely used Chiesa.

Chiesa didn't actually have a start to his name by the time Liverpool lifted the trophy. He'd finish the season with just one start and a grand total of 108 minutes - a ridiculously low number that absolutely no one saw coming.

Now, in truth, it was always going to be difficult for Chiesa because he didn't get a pre-season. Juventus left him in the cold as they sought a sale and it meant he arrived at Liverpool in August unready.

By the time Chiesa was fit - and that involved overcoming an injury - the team was settled and Slot didn't fancy working him into it. The Italian sat on the sidelines and didn't feature.

It meant that everyone expected him to leave this summer but Chiesa took an enormous gamble by remaining at Liverpool and backing himself to earn a place. However, the entire situation is drawing frustration from one key figure.

Federico Chiesa and Italy

Italy boss Gennaro Gattuso is reportedly frustrated at Slot's use of Chiesa and the lack of minutes afforded to the winger. That's according to the Daily Mail.

Now, we get it. Gattuso wants Chiesa playing regularly and recapturing his best form ahead of a possible World Cup campaign. He hopes to call the player up but if he's not playing consistently at Liverpool, he's not going to get the player he's after.

Chiesa has found some wonderful form this season, too. Two assist and two goals so far across all competitions is a fantastic return for someone with one start.

But until Slot eases up with Chiesa and trusts him more, Gattuso's frustration will remain. In truth, Slot has been quite brutal with the player, rarely giving him opportunities and limiting his rewards for good performances.

Hopefully, that can change going forward and we see more of him over the next few months. Everyone believes there's more to come from Chiesa, including Gattuso, but he needs the chances to show it.

And that rests on Slot.

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