Andoni Iraola, head coach of Liverpool, addressed various topics during a press conference in Chicago, following the team’s arrival in the USA for their pre-season tour. The discussions included the ongoing transfer window, the future of goalkeeper Alisson Becker, Dominik Szoboszlai’s new contract, and the selection of a vice-captain.
Iraola emphasised the importance of pre-season friendlies, stating that they form the foundation for the upcoming season, particularly when joining a new club. He noted that every training session and friendly is crucial for the squad to be in good condition for the start of the season.
Transfer window and squad depth
Regarding player acquisitions, Iraola indicated that the club definitely needs to sign a winger. He acknowledged that the transfer market is dynamic, and the team must remain open to new opportunities to enhance the squad. The coach also highlighted that certain positions require immediate attention due to injuries, leaving the team defensively thin.
The departure of Mohamed Salah, Andy Robertson, and Ibrahima Konate has created a need for strengthening the squad. Iraola mentioned that the right-back position remains a concern, especially with Conor Bradley facing a prolonged absence due to a knee injury. While the club trusts Bradley for the long term, his current recovery timeline means the team is exploring solutions for defensive depth.
Iraola stated that the team has three serious injuries, with Giovanni Leoni being the closest to returning. Bradley and Hugo Ekitike are expected to be out for several months. He also noted that the situations of Alexis Mac Allister and Victor Munoz, who played until the end of the World Cup, will likely affect their availability at the beginning of the season, though they deserve their holidays and rest.
Player futures and leadership roles
Despite earlier interest from Juventus, Alisson Becker is expected to remain with Liverpool. Iraola expressed satisfaction with the current goalkeeping situation, which includes Alisson and Giorgi Mamardashvili. He stressed Alisson’s importance as an experienced reference point in the changing room, crucial for helping new and young players adapt.
Iraola described Szoboszlai’s new five-year contract as significant news since his arrival. He praised Szoboszlai’s commitment and leadership by example in training, suggesting that younger players should emulate his work ethic. Iraola views Szoboszlai as a future leader within the team and aims to help him continue his strong performance.
The decision on a new vice-captain is still pending, as Iraola plans to address it later in pre-season after meeting more of the squad face-to-face. He emphasised that leadership extends beyond wearing an armband, noting that many players can lead effectively without a formal title. He believes the team needs multiple leaders on the pitch, regardless of who is officially appointed vice-captain.
Several players, including Virgil van Dijk, Cody Gakpo, and Alisson, will not be travelling to the US tour. Iraola decided it was more sensible for them to begin their pre-season at Kirkby as part of a smaller group, particularly given Van Dijk’s high minute count last season.
Pre-season schedule
Liverpool will continue their training in Chicago before heading to Nashville for their first friendly match against Sunderland on Saturday. Alexander Isak, Florian Wirtz, and Ryan Gravenberch, who exited the World Cup at the last-32 stage, are expected to join the squad before the second game against Wrexham in New York.
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Source: liverpoolfc.com
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As News-GB's Sports Reporter, Megan Sinclair reports on tennis, cricket and athletics for readers across the country. She built her name interviewing rising British talent. She holds a degree in Sport and Media from the University of Edinburgh and completed an NCTJ diploma. Megan lives in Edinburgh, where she plays club tennis and follows track athletics. “Give the athletes room and the story tells itself.”