In the summer transfer window, Liverpool only acquired two players with immediate effect. However, Georgian goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili remains on loan back at Valencia this season, leaving the only real reinforcement to be Italian international Federico Chiesa.
Throughout his career, the 26-year-old winger has made a name for himself as a left winger, but has also played many games as a second striker and right winger. He can play in a variety of areas up front, and the way he has been used at Liverpool has attracted a lot of attention.
The Athletic’s James Pearce referred to manager Arne Slot’s thinking, explaining that the Italian winger would back up Mohamed Salah.
In addition, England U-21 midfielder Harvey Elliott, who can also play on the right wing as well, is likely to be used in the ‘number 10’ position.
“Well, initially, certainly, as backup. Liverpool predominantly see him as offering high-quality cover for Salah on the right, which they haven’t had.”
“Slot sees Harvey Elliott, who has played wide right at times, really as more of a number 10 option, if anybody wants to rest Szoboszlai.”
“So I think that’s where we see it. But I think, as you said, the beauty of it is it’s low risk, and he’s not coming in with great pressure to replace some iconic name. It’s a really nice position to be in.”
“And, you know, Slot wanted six senior options across the front line, and he’s now got that.”
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