How Liverpool are preparing to face six new managers in first six games

Liverpool are set to face six new managers in their first six Premier League games, a situation that has never occurred before in the league's history. Andoni Iraola, the new Liverpool manager, will join this exclusive group after taking over at Anfield in June following his departure from Bournemouth. To prepare for these new managerial appointments, Iraola emphasizes the importance of analyzing the opposition's previous teams and tactics.

The club's analysis department, led by Jansen Moreno and supported by first-team analysts Tom Webber, Joel Bonner, and Lewis Mahoney, work closely with Iraola to gain insights into the new managers' styles. The team also engages with the set-piece coaches, Tommy Elphick and Shaun Cooper, who will collaborate on tactical preparations.

Six of Liverpool's upcoming opponents—Oliver Glasner (Nottingham Forest), Gary O'Neil (Ipswich), Enzo Maresca (Manchester City), Matthias Jaissle (Newcastle), Alvaro Arbeloa (Fulham), and Marco Rose (Bournemouth)—have previously managed in the Premier League. All of these managers have had pre-season games with their new clubs to adapt to their new environments.

Although pre-season footage provides valuable insights, analysts recognize that it is not the sole source of information. They focus on the manager's football at previous clubs and attempt to anticipate the new setup and tactics. Liverpool's former director of research, Ian Graham, highlights the importance of studying a manager's approach both in positive and negative game situations.