Liverpool under Andoni Iraola: A personnel overhaul and a fiery pressing philosophy.

Following a disappointing 2025-2026 campaign, Liverpool are on the verge of a complete overhaul. The arrival of manager Andoni Iraola is not just a change on the coaching bench, but also a statement of a high-intensity playing style, aimed at compensating for the physical shortcomings that plagued the Reds under Arne Slot.

A transformation from a dismal record.

Liverpool just went through a turbulent 2025/2026 season with a dismal record: losing 20 matches in all competitions. A lack of physical strength and the ability to maintain intensity meant Arne Slot's team were often outplayed by opponents in direct confrontations. Therefore, the appointment of Andoni Iraola is seen as a strategic move to rebuild the high-pressing identity that has faded at Anfield.

Defense: A blend of experience and youth.

Entering the 2026-2027 season, Virgil van Dijk will turn 35. However, the captain's influence remains irreplaceable in Iraola's system. Alongside him in goal will be Alisson Becker, who will stay to complete the final year of his contract. The biggest change lies in the central defensive partnership with Van Dijk after Ibrahima Konate left on a free transfer.

Jeremy Jacquet, a £60 million signing from Rennes, is the leading candidate to fill this void. While admitting to the immense pressure from the transfer fee, Iraola particularly favors the 20-year-old's youth and potential. On the flanks, Milos Kerkez is expected to replace Andrew Robertson, while Liverpool are actively pursuing Michael Kayode from Brentford to address their right-back problem following Conor Bradley's long-term injury.

Midfield: Prioritize high-intensity defensive midfielders.

Liverpool's midfield under Slot was criticized for lacking fighting spirit, which could cost Ryan Gravenberch or Alexis Mac Allister their starting places under the new regime. Iraola needs midfielders capable of tireless movement to operate his system.

Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton is currently the top target. If the deal goes through, Wharton would be a key player in midfield alongside Lamine Camara from Monaco. With Curtis Jones potentially moving to Inter Milan and Mac Allister being targeted by Real Madrid, a new midfield trio of Wharton, Camara, and Dominik Szoboszlai (in the number 10 role) is a very likely scenario.

The attacking dilemma in the post-Mohamed Salah era.

The departure of legend Mohamed Salah has left a huge void. Liverpool's management is considering spending over £100 million on targets such as Yan Diomande (RB Leipzig) or Bradley Barcola (PSG). These are modern wingers, possessing speed and unpredictability, perfectly suited to a high-pressing system.

Iraola's equally important task is to revive Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak after a season disrupted by injuries. Wirtz needs to rediscover his form in a free-roaming role on the left wing, while Isak will shoulder the responsibility of being the main goalscorer, especially with Hugo Ekitike still recovering from a ligament injury. With this new, youthful squad, Liverpool have every reason to believe they can regain their former status in the Premier League.

Liverpool's expected lineup under Andoni Iraola