Liverpool’s Pre-Season Challenges
Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola has expressed concerns about his team’s ability to maintain performance levels throughout a full match, following their 2-3 pre-season friendly loss to Monaco at Anfield. This marks the second consecutive match where Liverpool surrendered a two-goal lead. Iraola noted similarities to their previous game against Leeds, where they also lost after being two goals ahead. He stated that the team currently lacks the sustained energy required for the entire game, particularly after substitutions, highlighting a need for further work.
The match against Monaco was Iraola’s first home game in charge, attracting a sell-out crowd at Anfield. Despite the defeat, the performances of new signings Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak offered optimism. The pair, who joined for a combined fee last summer, combined effectively, with Isak scoring the first goal. Wirtz was noted as Liverpool’s best player on the pitch, having also scored in the previous game against Leeds in Chicago.
Iraola made 11 changes in the second half of the Monaco game, with minutes for players being a clear priority. Victor Munoz made his first appearance for Liverpool as a substitute. Virgil van Dijk, Alisson Becker, and Cody Gakpo returned to action against Monaco after an extended post-World Cup break. Van Dijk started alongside 18-year-old Ifeanyi Ndukwe, who is expected to go on loan due to work permit issues. The game concluded with Luke Chambers and Wataru Endo playing at centre-back.
Squad Depth and Injury Updates
The issue of squad depth was evident as Liverpool struggled to maintain their level after substitutions. Ronald Araujo, 27, underwent a medical for a season-long loan move from Barcelona, which includes an option to buy. Additionally, Jeremy Jacquet, 21, who joined from Rennes, has not yet participated in full training due to a minor knee problem, following a shoulder injury in February. Iraola is optimistic that Jacquet could be available for the upcoming friendly against Como.
Curtis Jones was also unavailable for the Monaco match due to hip issues, though it is not considered a significant injury. Iraola mentioned that Jones has been training daily, but the decision was made not to risk him. The team has two remaining pre-season games, both against Como on August 16, before their Premier League season begins with an away fixture against Newcastle.
Player Perspectives and Upcoming Fixtures
Alexander Isak expressed his enjoyment of working with Iraola, noting a good team spirit and collective effort to prepare for the season. Virgil van Dijk also commented on his positive initial interactions with Iraola, stating his commitment to the new head coach and the team’s success. Van Dijk highlighted the adaptation required for the new manager and staff’s different training methods.
Florian Wirtz acknowledged Iraola’s previous work at Bournemouth and expressed anticipation for working with him. Liverpool’s pre-season schedule has included several matches:
- Liverpool 4-2 Sunderland in Nashville on July 25
- Liverpool 1-0 Wrexham in New York on July 30
- Liverpool 2-4 Leeds in Chicago on August 2
- Liverpool 2-3 Monaco at Anfield on August 9
The final pre-season fixtures are scheduled for August 16 against Como at Anfield.
Source: bbc.com
