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Chiesa Seeks Starting Role as Liverpool Defenders Rebuild

7/27/2026

Summary

Chiesa Seeks Spot

Federico Chiesa said he is focused on earning a place under Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola.
He scored in Liverpool’s 4-2 preseason win over Sunderland in Nashville.
He joined Liverpool in August 2024 for £12.5 million on a contract through 2028.
After 36 appearances but only five starts last season, he hopes more minutes will help regain his Italy place.

Summary

Liverpool Defensive Crisis

Joe Gomez was forced off after eight minutes, leaving Liverpool with one senior centre-back.
New signing Jérémy Jacquet missed the match on precaution after Liverpool paid about $80 million (£60 million).
After Ibrahima Konaté’s free move to Real Madrid, senior centre-back options are Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez, Jérémy Jacquet and injured Giovanni Leoni.
Academy recruits Mor Talla Ndiaye (£1 million from Amitié) and Ifeanyi Ndukwe (£2.5 million from Austria Vienna) anchored the defence.

History

Historical Context

After a five-year trophy drought ending with the 1994-95 Coca-Cola Cup, Gérard Houllier overhauled Liverpool in 1999, signing centre-back Sami Hyypiä and later spending £11 million on Emile Heskey. The rebuilt defence helped the club win the League Cup, FA Cup and UEFA Cup in 2001. Today’s centre-back acquisitions echo Houllier’s strategy of strengthening the back line to restore European ambition.

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Chiesa Seeks Spot

Federico Chiesa said he is focused on earning a place under Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola.
He scored in Liverpool’s 4-2 preseason win over Sunderland in Nashville.
He joined Liverpool in August 2024 for £12.5 million on a contract through 2028.
After 36 appearances but only five starts last season, he hopes more minutes will help regain his Italy place.

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