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August 10, 2024

What’s Next for Federico Chiesa? A Look at His Struggles at Juventus

Following a promising start at Juventus, doubts linger about Federico Chiesa’s ability to realize his early potential. What does the future hold for the Italians?

Federico Chiesa’s arrival at Juventus in the summer of 2020 was met with immense excitement and high expectations. Many believed he was on the path to becoming a standout star in Serie A and a key player for the Italy Men’s National Team.

After an impressive four-year stint with Fiorentina, where he established himself as a dynamic and influential winger, Chiesa captured the footballing world’s attention.

Despite playing a crucial role in Italy’s triumph at the 2020 European Championship and showcasing moments of brilliance at the club level, his time in Turin has been marred by inconsistency, injuries, and false starts. These challenges have left even his most ardent supporters questioning his current contributions to the Old Lady.

How Significant Was Chiesa’s ACL Injury?

Federico Chiesa’s debut for Juventus against newly promoted Crotone in October 2020 encapsulates his Bianconeri journey: a vital assist to avert embarrassment, followed by a red card. However, the most significant low point of his time in Turin was beyond his control—a devastating setback for any young athlete.

In January 2022, Chiesa suffered a severe anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear, which sidelined him for the remainder of the season. The rigorous 10-month recovery challenged him physically and impacted the pace and agility that made him a formidable player. Since his return, he has struggled to regain that vital edge.

While this injury was disruptive, it also obscured a challenging second season with Juventus. After scoring the winning goal in the Coppa Italia final and tallying 14 goals in 43 appearances the previous year, Chiesa managed only two goals before his knee injury struck.

Mismanagement Under Massimiliano Allegri

Another significant factor in Federico Chiesa’s struggles has been the arrival of Massimiliano Allegri ahead of the 2021/22 season. Allegri’s pragmatic and conservative approach has not taken advantage of Chiesa’s strengths, which are best suited to a system that emphasizes quick transitions, high pressing, and attacking freedom—the style highlighted Chiesa’s contribution to Italy’s victory at Euro 2020.

Frequently, Chiesa found himself isolated on the wings or burdened with defensive responsibilities, limiting his ability to embrace his natural attacking instincts. Compounding this issue was the lack of a consistent role within Bianconeri’s lineup; he was often shifted from an unnatural left-wing position to the right and even deployed as a second striker.

Although Chiesa possesses the qualities to thrive as a wide attacker in new coach Thiago Motta’s preferred 4-3-3 formation, there have been few instances where he has truly excelled in that role.

What Does Chiesa Need Now?

While Federico Chiesa continues to showcase flashes of his undeniable talent, ongoing challenges may hinder him from achieving the heights expected at Juventus. At 26, however, he still has ample time to turn his fortunes around, and a change in environment could be the key to unlocking his full potential. With his current situation in Turin leaving him sidelined, he faces the possibility of enduring his most challenging season yet.

Rumors surfaced this summer regarding a possible Inter Milan player named Davide Frattesi trade. Given Inter’s current dominance, coach Simone Inzaghi might explore more attacking options on the right flank beyond Denzel Dumfries. While presenting a less conventional tactical fit, AC Milan could offer the club profile that Chiesa desires.

Having recently married his long-term girlfriend, Lucia Bramani, shortly after Euro 2024, he may prefer to stay in Italy. However, suppose the 2023/24 season begins slowly. In that case, he should not overlook opportunities abroad, especially with interest from clubs like West Ham United and Barcelona.

Ultimately, Chiesa needs a club and coach who is willing to nurture his talent with patience and positivity if he hopes to establish himself as a modern Serie A great.

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