Liverpool Star Has Been Treated Unfairly by Arne Slot and May Need to Consider a January Move
Angry Liverpool supporters turned on Arne Slot after the Reds were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw with Leeds United, with much of the criticism centred on his continued reluctance to give one player meaningful minutes. The stalemate at Elland Road brought Liverpool’s winning run to an abrupt halt, making for a disappointing start to the New Year.
Slot opted to deploy Dutch wing-back Jeremie Frimpong on the right flank, while Florian Wirtz featured on the left. Frimpong showed flashes of promise, but Wirtz struggled to make an impact, despite opening his Liverpool account against Wolves in the previous match.
The Dutchman waited until the 66th minute to alter his attack, withdrawing Wirtz for Cody Gakpo. However, many fans believe another winger is being unfairly overlooked and have directed their frustration at Slot’s team selection.
Leeds 0-0 Liverpool: Chiesa Still Left Waiting
Federico Chiesa remains on the fringes of Slot’s plans, continuing to warm the bench rather than being trusted with a sustained run in the starting XI. The Italian forward may now be questioning his future, especially given that he remains a peripheral figure even with Mohamed Salah away at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Slot’s decision to once again favour Frimpong on the right side of attack has only reinforced perceptions that he lacks confidence in the 28-year-old. Chiesa has yet to start a Premier League match this season and was only introduced late on against Leeds, with just ten minutes remaining.
Since his £12.5 million move from Juventus in the summer of 2024, Chiesa has found life at Anfield challenging. Slot’s apparent lack of trust has been evident, particularly on nights like this, where opportunities remain scarce.
A January departure may now be under consideration. Turkish side Besiktas previously showed interest last summer, and it wouldn’t be surprising if a Premier League club in need of a winger made a move for him.
Fans Claim Slot Is Showing Disrespect
A significant portion of the Liverpool fanbase appears to have lost patience with Slot’s handling of Chiesa, describing it as dismissive and unfair. Social media reaction following the Leeds draw was fierce, with many questioning why the Italian continues to be ignored as a starting option.
One supporter wrote:
“Arne Slot’s treatment of Federico Chiesa is disgraceful. I’ve never seen a manager openly disrespect a player like this. When Slot eventually leaves, he won’t be missed.”
Another fan suggested Chiesa is being misused deliberately:
“Slot plays Chiesa out of position just to justify not starting him. Absolutely shameless.”
A third added:
“I genuinely feel sorry for Chiesa. He’s given minimal minutes, then started, does his best, and is dropped the next week for a right-back. It’s ridiculous.”
Another summed it up bluntly:
“Slot’s handling of Chiesa has made no sense all season.”
Chiesa is not the only wide player fans believe deserves more chances. Supporters were encouraged by Rio Ngumoha’s brief cameo against Leeds and will be hoping Slot rotates his options when Liverpool face Fulham at Craven Cottage on Sunday, January 4.
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