Andoni Iraola appointed new Liverpool head coach – here’s 5 things he needs to fix
The 43-year-old has signed a two-year deal at Anfield…
- Establish his principles quickly: The criticism aimed at predecessor Arne Slot in his final season was that the side had no identity. Iraola has been appointed specifically because of the front-foot, energetic football he played at Bournemouth.
- Keeping players injury-free: Injuries decimated Liverpool’s season. Iraola, who will be without Hugo Ekitike for most of the season, has to find a way to get – and keep – British record signing Alexander Isak fit. He may also have to adapt his methods as has never had to contend with European football.
- Maximise the talent: If Iraola can get Isak and Florian Wirtz firing and dovetailing with midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai then he stands a greater chance of success. He will need reinforcements, however.
- Identify leaders: Slot’s team looked devoid of character when the going got tough. Results were reflected in that lack of mentality, conceding eight stoppage-time goals – the worst in their history. Iraola will need to fix that.
- Solve set-piece problems: Liverpool conceded 20 set-piece goals in the Premier League last season. Iraola’s Bournemouth conceded 18, which on face value is not a good starting point, and while that was more in line with expectations Iraola has work to do in both penalty areas.
