Liverpool’s Iraola era begins with big squad decisions ahead

Andoni Iraola has officially begun work as Liverpool head coach, with his first full week at the AXA Training Centre providing an early glimpse into the culture, standards and decisions that could define a new era at Anfield.

While pre-season results rarely tell the full story, the opening days of training have already highlighted Iraola's demanding approach. The 44-year-old has overseen intense sessions, assessed his inherited squad and made it clear that Liverpool's summer rebuild is far from complete.

With the World Cup drawing to a close, attention is now expected to shift towards new signings, while the long-term leadership structure within the squad is also becoming a priority.

One of Iraola's biggest early decisions will be appointing a new vice-captain following the departures of Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson.

Dominik Szoboszlai has quickly emerged as the leading candidate after signing a new five-year contract. The Hungary captain has publicly stated he is ready to take on greater responsibility, while Virgil van Dijk remains Liverpool captain despite entering the final year of his contract.

Alongside leadership decisions, Iraola has reiterated that Liverpool still need further additions before the transfer window closes. The club are expected to become more active in the market once their World Cup players return and recruitment plans accelerate.

Training has reflected the high-energy football Iraola built his reputation on at Bournemouth.

Players completed fitness testing before moving into demanding ball sessions, with the Spaniard heavily involved throughout and regularly encouraging players during drills. Liverpool have also introduced a new fitness assessment focused on repeated high-intensity changes of direction, replacing previous testing methods used under Jürgen Klopp and Arne Slot.

Several players have already caught the coaching staff's attention. Harvey Elliott returned earlier than expected for pre-season, Curtis Jones has reportedly arrived in excellent condition, while defender Jeremy Jacquet has recovered from injury and continues to settle into the first-team environment.

With several senior internationals still absent after the World Cup, younger players have been handed an opportunity to impress before Liverpool depart for their pre-season tour of the United States.

The Reds will travel to Chicago before fixtures in Nashville and New York, with double training sessions planned throughout the trip. The tour will give Iraola his first opportunity to work with a near-complete squad as preparations for the new Premier League season gather momentum.

Liverpool will head to the United States for the next stage of pre-season, where Iraola will integrate returning World Cup players and continue assessing his squad. Transfer activity is also expected to increase as the club looks to strengthen key areas before the Premier League campaign begins, while decisions over the leadership group could be made before the opening fixture.

What do you think should be Iraola's biggest priority before the Premier League season starts – new signings, appointing a vice-captain, or refining his tactical system?