Florian Wirtz praises Andoni Iraola despite Liverpool defeat as manager sends fitness warning

Florian Wirtz believes Liverpool are heading in the right direction under Andoni Iraola despite their 3-2 pre-season defeat to AS Monaco, with the German playmaker admitting he is already enjoying the Spaniard's footballing philosophy.

The Reds let a two-goal lead slip at Anfield, but Wirtz continued his impressive start to life on Merseyside by scoring for the second successive game.

Liverpool's summer signing has quickly adapted to Iraola's tactical demands, operating in an advanced playmaking role as the Reds prepare for the new Premier League season.

Speaking after the defeat, Wirtz spoke positively about his first weeks under the former Bournemouth boss.

"The last three years he did at Bournemouth, you could see what he can do with the team. Of course we are looking forward to working with him. The first couple of weeks, I can just say that I'm enjoying it. It's only been two weeks I'm in training but I'm enjoying it and I like the idea of football he has."

The Germany international has already become a focal point of Liverpool's attack, with his creativity and movement catching the eye throughout pre-season.

While Wirtz was encouraged by Liverpool's progress, Iraola admitted his side are still struggling to maintain the intensity required across 90 minutes.

The Reds raced into an early advantage before Monaco fought back to claim victory, continuing a pattern seen in recent friendlies.

Speaking to LFC TV, Iraola said: "It was very similar to the match we played against Leeds. We put in a good first half, especially in the first thirty minutes. At the moment, perhaps we do not have more than that in terms of the levels required to perform in this way."

The Liverpool boss accepted Monaco deserved the result after his side faded in the second half.

Liverpool's defeat also exposed continuing defensive concerns ahead of the new campaign.

Virgil van Dijk returned to the starting XI but lacked his usual defensive partners, while Wataru Endo was forced to fill in at centre-back during the second half.

The Reds are expected to strengthen before the transfer window closes, with Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo closing in on a move to Anfield. Jeremie Jaquet is also nearing a return from injury, which should boost Iraola's options.

One of the biggest positives from pre-season has been the developing understanding between Wirtz and Alexander Isak.

The pair combined well throughout the Monaco clash, giving supporters an early glimpse of what Liverpool hope will become one of the Premier League's most dangerous attacking partnerships.

Isak also backed Liverpool's progress under Iraola.

"It is really great. I feel that the morale within the group is excellent, and we are all working hard to ensure things go well. We will make absolutely sure that we are in full readiness as the season begins."

Liverpool will continue fine-tuning their preparations ahead of the Premier League opener against Newcastle United, while attention also remains on strengthening the defence, with Ronald Araujo edging closer to completing his move from Barcelona.