Barcola must get used to Liverpool highs and lows, says Iraola

Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has acknowledged that newly signed French striker Bradley Barcola must learn to handle the highs and lows that come with a massive transfer fee. Barcola scored a stunning hat-trick in Liverpool's 6-3 Champions League win over LASK, marking his debut for the Reds. Despite his impressive start, Iraola noted that Barcola faces the scrutiny that accompanies a six-figure million-pound transfer.

Iraola emphasized that football's nature involves alternating successes and failures, adding that Barcola, like every player and staff member, must adapt to this reality. The manager also highlighted the challenges Barcola faces in adjusting to the new team, league, and his teammates, given his recent injury issues. Cody Gakpo, Alexander Isak, and Dominik Szoboszlai have all missed recent matches due to injuries sustained during international duty, and all three are doubtful for the upcoming match against Brentford.

Iraola explained that Barcola's progress will depend on consistent playing time and building rapport with his teammates. The manager mentioned that center-back Giovanni Leoni's return from a severe knee injury is now uncertain, with a further delay expected as the injury proved to be more extensive than initially thought.