Chicago: Iraola discusses transfer window, Szoboszlai deal, and vice-captaincy
Andoni Iraola, the head coach of Liverpool, addressed the media in Chicago during the club’s pre-season tour of the USA. He provided updates on various topics, including the ongoing transfer window, the goalkeeping situation, the new contract for Dominik Szoboszlai, and the selection of a vice-captain.
Iraola emphasised the importance of pre-season friendlies, stating they are crucial for building the foundation for the upcoming season, especially when joining a new club. He noted that every training session and friendly is significant due to limited time with the full squad.
Transfer Window Priorities
When questioned about potential new signings, Iraola indicated that while it is difficult to specify a number, the club remains open to options to improve the squad. He explicitly stated that Liverpool “definitely need to sign a winger.” This comes after Victor Munoz was acquired from Osasuna for £34 million last month, but the club has not yet replaced Mohamed Salah, who departed at the end of last season.
The coach also highlighted defensive depth as a concern, particularly at right-back and centre-back. He mentioned that the team is currently “very thin” defensively due to injuries. The situation with Conor Bradley, who is recovering from a serious knee injury and is expected to be out for several months, complicates the right-back position. Iraola expressed trust in Bradley for the long term but acknowledged the immediate need for solutions.
Regarding other positions, Iraola noted that decisions would depend on market availability, cost, and the assessment of current players. He also mentioned that Andy Robertson and Ibrahima Konate have moved on, adding to the need for strengthening the squad.
Squad Stability and Leadership
Iraola confirmed that goalkeeper Alisson Becker will remain with the club despite earlier interest from Juventus. He expressed satisfaction with the current goalkeeping setup, which includes Giorgi Mamardashvili, and mentioned that Armin Pecsi would be sent out on loan. Iraola views Alisson as a vital figure in the dressing room, providing experience and helping new and young players adapt, alongside other experienced players like Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez.
The head coach praised Szoboszlai’s commitment and recent contract renewal, describing it as “one of the greatest news since I arrived.” He highlighted Szoboszlai’s leadership by example in training and his potential to be a future leader for the team. Iraola aims to utilise Szoboszlai effectively and help him continue his strong form.
The vacancy for a vice-captain, following Robertson’s exit, is a decision Iraola plans to address later in pre-season. He stated that he has not yet met nearly half of the squad face-to-face. Iraola believes that leadership is not solely dependent on wearing an armband, emphasising the need for multiple leaders on the pitch.
Pre-Season Schedule and Absences
Liverpool’s pre-season tour includes matches against Sunderland in Nashville and Wrexham in New York. A final match in Illinois against Leeds United at Soldier Field is also scheduled. Players like Alexander Isak, Florian Wirtz, and Ryan Gravenberch are set to join the squad before the Wrexham game.
However, Van Dijk, Cody Gakpo, and Alisson will not travel to the US. Iraola decided it was more sensible for them to begin their pre-season at Kirkby as part of a smaller group. Alexis Mac Allister and Munoz, who played until the end of the World Cup, are expected to have their holidays and some rest, which might impact their availability at the start of the season.
Hugo Ekitike, Stefan Bajcetic, Giovanni Leoni, and Conor Bradley are part of the travelling contingent, continuing their rehabilitation from long-term injuries. Leoni is the closest to returning, while Bradley and Ekitike are still months away from full fitness.
The Premier League season is set to begin on August 23 with Liverpool’s match against Newcastle United.
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Source: liverpoolfc.com