Key Takeaways:
- Andoni Iraola conducted his inaugural press conference since becoming Liverpool head coach
- Liverpool anticipate further transfers before the season begins, with Iraola confirming ongoing work to strengthen the squad
- Hugo Ekitike, Conor Bradley, and Giovanni Leoni have all been ruled out for the start of the campaign due to various absences
Iraola’s Vision and Approach
Newly appointed Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has expressed his aspiration for the team to display a spirit that supports can “be proud of,” as he addressed the media for the first time since taking over from Arne Slot. The Basque coach emphasised his wish for the side to be recognised for their hard work and relentless intensity on the pitch.
Iraola: I understand this is Liverpool Football Club, we have to change some things, even tactically but if they sign me it's because they want a lot of things I was doing at other clubs. So I don't want to change the DNA of my teams on the pitch. I try to be as natural as… pic.twitter.com/GTO1CAVVeF
— Anfield Edition | æ (@AnfieldEdition) July 13, 2026
Squad Strengthening and Player Absences
Iraola confirmed that Liverpool are actively seeking to bolster their squad prior to the closure of the transfer window. He acknowledged the club have lost several experienced players and are contending with injuries, but reassured supporters that recruitment efforts are underway. Among those who will be unavailable at the start of the season are Hugo Ekitike, Conor Bradley, and Giovanni Leoni. Iraola stated: “There will be a period where we will be without them,” and added, “We will have to try to find solutions.”
Youth Integration and Pre-Season Preparations
Harvey Elliott, who spent the previous campaign on loan at Aston Villa, has returned to the club earlier than expected. Iraola commended Elliott’s determination, describing the midfielder as having shown an “eagerness to show himself”. The manager noted that Elliott will be given an opportunity during pre-season, referencing the difficult situation last season in which Villa could not allow him to play: “He will have a chance during pre-season,” he said. “I hope we can see him in a good place. Last season had to have been very difficult for him, as a strange situation meant they (Villa) couldn’t let him play.”
Engagement with Liverpool’s World Cup Players
Iraola confirmed that he has been communicating with the Liverpool contingent currently at the World Cup. He explained that their staggered return would provide him with more opportunities to connect individually with each member of the squad.
Adapting to a New Challenge
The 44-year-old manager underlined his commitment to authenticity in his managerial style, remarking: “I will try to be the same coach. You have to be yourself,” he said. “Especially with the players, I know we will have big personalities and big egos, but I will try not to change with them.”
Discussing the club’s rigorous fixture calendar, Iraola described the challenge as significant, yet viewed it as an exciting step in his career: “It is a big challenge for me. It will be a big change but a great opportunity.”
