Liverpool winger Federico Chiesa has revealed that fitness and mental readiness played a crucial role in his limited involvement last season, admitting he wasn’t in the right condition to compete at the top level.
Speaking to The Times, the Italian star said: “Last year I wasn’t fit enough. I wasn’t mentally ready and I didn’t play. I was totally OK with it because I wasn’t up to speed with the other lads.”
Chiesa, who joined Liverpool amid high expectations, endured a challenging adaptation period at Anfield, struggling with both physical setbacks and the mental demands of Premier League football. However, the 27-year-old insists that things have now changed for the better.
“This year, I feel better physically and mentally,” he added. “It’s always Slot deciding,” referring to Liverpool’s new manager Arne Slot, who replaced Jürgen Klopp last year.
The Dutch coach has been praised for instilling a positive atmosphere and a dynamic playing style at Liverpool, and Chiesa’s improved form could be pivotal as the Reds aim to compete for major honours this season.
