Liverpool supporters were already expressing their excitement about Federico Chiesa just minutes into his debut start at Anfield.
Chiesa transferred to the Reds from Juventus for an initial fee of £10 million, but his playing time was limited at the beginning of the season.
Manager Arne Slot revealed earlier this week that the Italian winger was not yet fit to play a full 90 minutes, having had minimal game time in the previous five months.
However, he was given his first start in Liverpool’s Carabao Cup match against West Ham.
Despite falling behind 1-0 early due to an own goal by Jarell Quansah, Liverpool equalized in the 27th minute with a goal from Diogo Jota, assisted by Chiesa. Even before that, fans were already showing their enthusiasm for the winger, despite his limited touches on the ball.
One supporter commented, “I’ve honestly never seen a player so thrilled to play for us as Chiesa is. That enthusiasm is incredible.”
Another noted, “Chiesa hasn’t stopped smiling since he joined Liverpool.”
A third remarked, “Chiesa is running up and down the pitch like he needs to pay rent tomorrow—love it.”
A fourth added, “Chiesa’s smiling challenge: Impossible.”
The 26-year-old had a near chance to score his first goal for Liverpool just before halftime but sent his shot over the bar.
He was substituted in the 59th minute, with Liverpool ultimately winning 5-1 after scoring four goals in the second half. He had previously made his Anfield debut from the bench during the 3-0 victory over Bournemouth, where he played seven minutes.
After the match, he shared with Liverpool’s official website: “Hearing ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ for the first time from the bench was incredible. It was also special against Nottingham Forest, but we lost then. Today was just amazing, and I loved every moment. I was ready to play, and when the coach called me in, I felt so happy and relieved because I wanted to play here at Anfield.”
