Liverpool FC is reeling from a bombshell revelation that could reshape its squad dynamics and managerial stability: Italian winger Federico Chiesa, 28, has reportedly informed the club he “refuses to play under the Dutchman again,” citing Arne Slot’s handling of Mohamed Salah as the breaking point. The news, broken by Italian outlet Tuttomercatoweb on December 10, 2025, comes amid escalating tensions between Slot and Salah, with the Egyptian star’s recent outburst accusing the club of scapegoating him. Sources close to Chiesa tell Liverpool Echo that the £10 million signing from Juventus last summer feels “disrespected” by Slot’s bench rotations, viewing the Salah saga as a pattern of favoritism toward aging stars at the expense of younger talent. As Slot faces mounting pressure after three straight league draws, Chiesa’s stance threatens to ignite a full-blown crisis, with Roma and Napoli already circling for a January loan.
Chiesa’s ultimatum stems from a season of frustration. Arriving in 2024 with high expectations after a Euro 2020 triumph, the speedster has made just 12 Premier League appearances, scoring twice and assisting once, largely due to fitness niggles and Slot’s preference for Salah and Luis Diaz. “Federico sees how Salah gets leeway despite form dips, while he’s frozen out,” a source said. Slot’s post-Leeds comments—admitting “no clue” if Salah has played his last Reds game after benching the 33-year-old for three matches—poured fuel on the fire. Salah’s rant, claiming the club “threw him under the bus” and that his relationship with Slot is “broken,” has divided Anfield, with legends like Jamie Carragher backing the Egyptian and calling for Slot to “rebuild trust.”
Slot, 46, has defended his decisions, insisting in a December 9 presser: “Every player has a possibility to start, but we have options.” Yet Chiesa, sidelined for the Champions League clash against Inter Milan due to illness, reportedly confronted Slot in training, demanding clarity. “He wants guarantees,” the source added. “Salah’s drama was the final straw—Federico feels expendable.” Italian media reports Roma and Napoli have “approached” Liverpool for a loan, with Chiesa open to a Serie A return to revive his career.
The ripple effects are immediate. Liverpool’s right-wing depth—already thin with Salah’s uncertain future (linked to Saudi clubs despite his 2025 extension)—could force a January splash, with names like Pedro Neto or Antony floated. Slot, under fire after a 5-1 win over Sunderland masked defensive frailties, now juggles egos in a squad blending Jurgen Klopp’s old guard with his high-pressing vision. “Arne must dislike Chiesa to bench him this much,” tweeted ex-EFL star Adebayo Akinfenwa, echoing fan frustration.
Chiesa’s form in Italy was electric—28 goals in 121 Juventus games—but injuries hampered his Anfield start. Slot praised his “better place” fitness in December, but limited minutes (averaging 25 per game) have fueled discontent. As Liverpool eyes a top-four push, Chiesa’s rebellion amplifies the Salah standoff, with Trent Alexander-Arnold and Virgil van Dijk reportedly “making feelings clear” in private meetings.
For Slot, it’s a test of authority; for FSG, a squad harmony crisis. Chiesa’s “refusal” isn’t formal yet, but sources say he’s “done waiting.” Will Liverpool call his bluff, or ship him to Italy? Anfield braces for fallout—the Dutchman’s honeymoon is over.
