Liverpool’s 2–0 triumph over Brighton at Anfield generated plenty of discussion — and not just because of the scoreline. The Reds dominated proceedings with composure, structure, and tactical clarity, rarely allowing Brighton to settle.
Yet once the match ended, attention quickly shifted away from the result itself. One name dominated the conversation across the stands, the studios, and social media: Federico Chiesa.
Despite featuring only briefly, the Italian winger left an immediate and lasting impression. His influence was so striking that Liverpool icon Jamie Carragher — never one to exaggerate praise — felt compelled to make a firm declaration after full-time.
“From this point on, Federico Chiesa has to start,” Carragher insisted. “I don’t care who Arne Slot leaves out — he has to be in the team.”
That verdict alone underlined just how impactful Chiesa’s appearance was. It also reignited a growing debate: how can a player capable of changing the tempo so dramatically still be on the fringes of the starting XI?
Maximum impact, minimal minutes
Chiesa may not have been named in the initial lineup, but his cameo injected fresh life into Liverpool’s attack almost instantly.
Non-stop intensity
He pressed relentlessly, harried Brighton’s defenders, and tracked back when required. His energy lifted the entire side and forced mistakes from the opposition.
Smart positioning
Rather than staying fixed, Chiesa drifted intelligently into space, pulling defenders out of shape and opening lanes for teammates to exploit.
Attacking influence
While he didn’t get on the scoresheet, his role in the buildup to Liverpool’s second goal did not go unnoticed. His movement unsettled Brighton’s defensive structure and created opportunities.
Defensive discipline
Arne Slot demands effort without the ball, and Chiesa delivered. His pressing and positioning disrupted Brighton’s rhythm and highlighted his commitment to the team’s tactical plan.
Why Carragher’s words matter
Carragher is known for his honesty and high standards. For him to call for Chiesa to become a guaranteed starter adds real pressure on Slot to rethink his attacking selections.
With Liverpool pushing for consistency and momentum in the league, Chiesa’s blend of energy, intelligence, and versatility could prove invaluable.
Fans — and rivals — are convinced
Supporters wasted no time backing Carragher’s stance online, labelling Chiesa’s performance as transformative. Many praised his direct approach, creativity, and unpredictability — attributes they feel Liverpool need more regularly.
Brighton noticed too. Their head coach Fabian Hürzeler later admitted his side struggled to cope with Chiesa, revealing that his movement repeatedly disrupted their defensive organisation.
With praise flowing from club legends, fans, analysts, and even the opposition, the message is growing clearer by the week: Federico Chiesa may no longer be a luxury off the bench — he could be a starter Liverpool simply cannot afford to leave out