Federico Chiesa has lifted the lid on the mood inside the Liverpool dressing room after their 3–2 defeat to Brentford, admitting there was complete silence.
The defeat left Arne Slot’s side seven points behind leaders Arsenal and raised further doubts about their title defence. Liverpool, who had a perfect start to the season, have lost five of their last six in all competitions – two of them against Crystal Palace, their next opponent in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday.
“No one was speaking,” Chiesa revealed. “Sometimes you don’t have to talk about the situation – everyone knows what’s going on. The first thing that comes to your mind is to give more, train harder. It was good that we didn’t talk because it means everyone wants to change.”
Chiesa believes the team can respond at Anfield, insisting that Liverpool are ready to handle Palace’s direct style. “If Palace want to play long balls and long throw-ins, they can. We’ll answer with high intensity and duels. We have world-class players who can perform in any situation,” he said. “In Italy, we say ‘winning brings winning’ – we want to win tomorrow. That’s it.”
Slot faces a selection dilemma amid injuries to Alisson, Jeremie Frimpong, Ryan Gravenberch, and Curtis Jones, though Robert Lewandowski and Dani Olmo recently returned to training. Freddie Woodman could debut in goal, while youngsters Trey Nyoni and Rio Ngumoha are again in contention.
The Italian forward, who joined from Juventus and endured an injury-hit debut season, says he now feels ready to take on a greater leadership role. “Playing for Liverpool is an honour, and having such support from the fans means a lot. I’m 28, and we have younger players like Florian Wirtz who can learn from me. I can bring my experience,” he explained.
Chiesa, who has already exceeded his appearance tally from last season, insists his focus is on helping Liverpool rediscover their rhythm. “Last year I wasn’t mentally or physically ready,” he said. “Now I feel stronger and I’m improving. I just want to keep giving everything for the club and for the fans.”
Despite the recent slump, Chiesa remains confident: “We’re not winning now, but I always think positive. We have the quality, the players, and a fantastic manager. I don’t see trouble ahead – we’ll bounce back.”
