The problem Liverpool must address after Andoni Iraola’s losing Anfield bow draws Arne Slot parallels
Liverpool 2-3 Monaco: Another second-half collapse in pre-season for Iraola’s men shows that Liverpool’s recruitment is far from finished
In the wake of Andoni Iraola's losing debut at Anfield, parallels to his predecessor's poor performance have been drawn, leading to comparisons with Arne Slot. After Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson's farewell ceremony, Iraola took charge of Liverpool, leading with 11 weeks of separation. The team's first match began with echoes of past struggles, including a 3-2 defeat to Monaco, where a lead was lost due to a conceded goal from a set-piece, mirroring Slot's difficulties.
Iraola's hopes are to avoid repeating Slot's woes when competitive football resumes. Liverpool's recruitment remains incomplete, with Ronald Araujo's loan from Barcelona yet to complete, alongside the unfulfilled desire to sign Yan Diomande. Bradley Barcola's valuation remains a sticking point, as PSG is unwilling to part with him for less than £100m.
Isak and Florian Wirtz scored in their debut, but Isak, who has been a loanee for four consecutive seasons, might not establish himself permanently. Wirtz, playing as a No. 10, received praise for his performance. Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz both found the back of the net during the match (Reuters). The team's defensive line has become more advanced, potentially benefiting Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez, but it also highlights the need for central defenders capable of individual duels.
Virgil van Dijk made his first appearance since the World Cup, but his performance was marred by a penalty conceded. Wataru Endo, who spent the second half as a center-back, and Jeremie Frimpong were involved in the Serbian's equalizing goal. The team's midfield, now featuring Jeremy Jacquet and Giovanni Leoni, is yet to play in pre-season, and Joe Gomez is injured.
Wataru Endo, Ifeanyi Ndukwe, and Mor Talla Ndiaye represent promising defensive prospects. However, the immediate concerns revolve around finding a bridge to the future, with Ibrahima Konate's departure leaving a gap that could be filled by Harvey Elliott, who returned from Aston Villa in a cheering crowd.
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