Chicago: Iraola discusses transfer window, Alisson, Szoboszlai deal, and vice-captaincy
Andoni Iraola, Liverpool‘s head coach, addressed various topics during a press conference in Chicago as the club commenced its two-week pre-season tour in the USA. Discussions included the ongoing transfer window, the future of goalkeeper Alisson Becker, Dominik Szoboszlai‘s new contract, and the selection of a vice-captain.
Iraola emphasised the importance of pre-season friendlies, stating that every training session and friendly is crucial for building a foundation for the upcoming season, especially when joining a new club. He noted that the team is scheduled to play five friendlies before the season begins.
Transfer Window and Squad Needs
Regarding transfers, Iraola indicated that while it is challenging to specify a precise number of players needed, the club must remain open to opportunities to enhance the squad. He explicitly stated a need for a winger, mentioning, “We definitely need to sign a winger.” This comes after the acquisition of Victor Munoz from Osasuna for £34 million last month, but without a direct replacement for Mohamed Salah, who departed at the end of the previous season.
The head coach also highlighted defensive concerns, describing the squad as “thin” due to injuries. The right-back position, in particular, presents a challenge, with Conor Bradley‘s return from a knee injury still some time away. Iraola expressed trust in Bradley for the long term but acknowledged the current situation necessitates exploring solutions for defensive depth, including at centre-back and right-back. Andy Robertson and Ibrahima Konate have also moved on, further contributing to the need for strengthening.
Iraola confirmed that Giovanni Leoni, Bradley, and Hugo Ekitike are currently dealing with serious injuries, with Bradley and Ekitike expected to be out for months. Despite reports linking midfielder Alexis Mac Allister with a move to Spain, Iraola is counting on him for the upcoming season.
Goalkeeping and Leadership
Iraola expressed satisfaction with the current goalkeeping situation, which includes Alisson and Giorgi Mamardashvili. He mentioned that Armin Pecsi would be sent out on loan. Alisson, along with experienced players like Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez, is seen as a vital reference point in the changing room, particularly for new and young players adapting to the club.
The new contract for Szoboszlai was described by Iraola as “one of the probably greatest news since I arrived.” He praised Szoboszlai’s commitment and leadership by example in training, suggesting that young players should emulate his approach. Iraola views Szoboszlai as a future leader within the team and aims to help him continue his strong form.
The decision regarding a new vice-captain is yet to be made, as Iraola noted he has not yet met nearly half of the squad face-to-face. He plans to address this later in pre-season, emphasising that leadership extends beyond wearing an armband. He believes the team needs multiple leaders on the pitch, regardless of official roles.
Pre-Season Schedule and Squad Updates
The pre-season tour includes training in Chicago before moving to Nashville for the opening friendly against Sunderland. Subsequent matches are scheduled against Wrexham in New York and Leeds United in Illinois at Soldier Field. Alexander Isak, Florian Wirtz, and Ryan Gravenberch are expected to join the squad before the Wrexham game.
However, Van Dijk, Cody Gakpo, and Alisson will not be travelling to the US; Iraola has decided they will commence their pre-season training at Kirkby. This decision was made considering Van Dijk’s significant playing time last season. Mac Allister and Munoz, who played until the end of a recent tournament, are also expected to have a delayed start to pre-season due to holidays and rest, which may impact the beginning of the season.
Despite the absence of some key players, the touring squad includes Curtis Jones, Milos Kerkez, and Szoboszlai. Jeremy Jacquet, a recent acquisition, is also part of the travelling contingent. The Premier League season is set to begin for Liverpool with a match against Newcastle United on August 23.
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Source: liverpoolfc.com
As NewsUK's Senior Football Correspondent, Thomas Beckwith reports on the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side for readers across the country. He reported on three World Cups for a national news agency. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from Sheffield Hallam University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Thomas lives in Sheffield, where he watches lower-league football most weekends. “Football writing is about the decisions, not just the result.”
