The Kopite View

Liverpool rescued another point at Anfield, but the 2-2 draw with Nottingham Forest has left me with more questions than answers.

There were positives.

Florian Wirtz looked much more dangerous, Alexander Isak finally scored his first Liverpool goal and Víctor Muñoz produced another huge moment to rescue his team.

But once again, Liverpool exposed some of the same weaknesses that were visible against Newcastle.

Two games.

Two draws.

Four goals conceded.

And there are five things in particular that really concern me.

1. The full-backs are still a major concern

I don’t think we can keep ignoring this.

Both Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez struggled again.

Frimpong did have some good moments going forward and was involved in the build-up to Wirtz’s disallowed goal, but defensively he looked vulnerable and his final delivery was inconsistent.

Kerkez was also disappointing.

He gave the ball away cheaply, struggled to influence the game and was eventually taken off.

The biggest concern is that Liverpool don’t appear to have particularly convincing alternatives.

Tsimikas can provide experience, but he’s hardly a long-term solution.

And with Conor Bradley and other options unavailable, Iraola’s choices are limited.

Liverpool have spent enormous money on attacking players.

But watching this team, I keep coming back to the full-back positions.

2. The options off the bench are worrying

This is perhaps the biggest problem of all.

When Liverpool need to change a game, who can Iraola actually turn to?

Against Forest, the manager made changes, but there wasn’t exactly an embarrassment of attacking riches waiting on the bench.

The squad is extremely thin.

Young players such as Trey Nyoni and Rio Ngumoha are being asked to contribute, while injuries have made the situation even more difficult.

That isn’t a criticism of the youngsters.

Quite the opposite.

They are being thrown into situations where they shouldn’t necessarily have to carry the responsibility yet.

Liverpool are going to be competing in the Premier League, Champions League and domestic cups.

You need depth to survive that.

And right now, I’m not convinced Liverpool have enough of it.

3. Alexander Isak still isn’t getting enough service

Yes, Isak scored.

And I’m delighted for him.

But we have to look beyond the goal.

He had just six touches in the first half and finished the match with only 12, according to This Is Anfield.

That’s nowhere near enough.

Liverpool have spent £125m on Isak because he’s supposed to be one of the most dangerous strikers in world football.

Yet we’re seeing him isolated for long periods.

The problem isn’t necessarily Isak.

It’s the service.

Liverpool need to get the ball into dangerous areas quicker.

They need runners around him.

They need Wirtz and the wingers finding him earlier.

They need their full-backs delivering better balls.

Because there’s absolutely no point spending £125m on a world-class striker if we’re going to leave him watching the game from the edge of the action.

His goal against Forest was encouraging.

Now Liverpool have to build on it.

4. That penalty was never a penalty — far too soft

I’m sorry, but I simply didn’t think this was a penalty.

Neco Williams went into the box, Alisson came out and there was contact.

But for me, it was far too soft to award a penalty in a Premier League game.

Even Alisson appeared furious with the decision and was booked for his reaction.

Forest obviously won’t care.

They were given the penalty and Morgan Gibbs-White converted it brilliantly.

But from a Liverpool perspective, I would be incredibly frustrated.

Liverpool had already been punished for their defensive mistakes.

To then concede from what felt like such a soft decision made it even more difficult.

Of course, Liverpool shouldn’t have allowed the situation to develop in the first place.

But that doesn’t change my opinion.

I’ve seen much more contact waved away.

5. The midfield is still a concern

This is the one that really worries me.

Liverpool’s midfield still doesn’t look balanced.

Against Newcastle, we saw how vulnerable the team could be when the midfield was too attacking.

Against Forest, there were again periods where Liverpool struggled to control the game and protect the defence.

Alexis Mac Allister’s return helped.

Dominik Szoboszlai worked hard.

But I still don’t think Liverpool have solved the fundamental problem.

Who is the midfielder who protects the defence?

Who wins the ball?

Who stops counter-attacks?

Who gives the centre-backs protection?

Who allows Wirtz, Szoboszlai and the attacking players to concentrate on creating?

At the moment, I’m not sure Liverpool have that player.

And if they don’t address it, better teams than Nottingham Forest will punish them.

The bigger picture

This is why I’m finding it difficult to look at these two draws and simply say:

“It’s only the start of the season.”

Yes, it is.

Yes, Iraola needs time.

Yes, new players need time to settle.

But these aren’t isolated problems.

The same issues keep appearing.

The full-backs look vulnerable.

The midfield lacks balance.

Isak isn’t getting enough service.

The bench doesn’t have enough depth.

And Liverpool are giving opponents too many opportunities.

The positive is that there is clearly attacking quality in this team.

Wirtz looks increasingly dangerous.

Isak has opened his account.

Muñoz has been fantastic.

And Bradley Barcola is on his way.

But Barcola isn’t going to solve every problem.

My verdict

Liverpool have shown plenty of character by coming from behind twice in both of their opening games.

But character shouldn’t have to rescue Liverpool every week.

At some point, the performances have to become more convincing.

Iraola needs help.

And Liverpool’s hierarchy need to look at this squad honestly.

Because if they believe this group is strong enough to compete on four fronts, they’re asking an awful lot of the manager.

There is still time to strengthen.

And after watching Liverpool’s first two games, I’d argue they need to.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool now know exactly when and where they will play their eight Champions League league-phase matches — and there are some seriously exciting nights ahead.

The Reds will face Atletico Madrid, LASK, Villarreal, Fenerbahce, Club Brugge, Porto, Inter Milan and Lens as Andoni Iraola takes Liverpool into his first Champions League campaign.

And when you look at the schedule, there is plenty to get excited about.

Liverpool’s Champions League fixtures

Liverpool v Atletico Madrid
Wednesday, September 9
8pm

LASK v Liverpool
Wednesday, October 14
5:45pm

Liverpool v Villarreal
Tuesday, October 20
8pm

Fenerbahce v Liverpool
Wednesday, November 4
5:45pm

Club Brugge v Liverpool
Wednesday, November 25
8pm

Liverpool v FC Porto
Wednesday, December 9
8pm

Inter Milan v Liverpool
Tuesday, January 19
8pm

Liverpool v RC Lens
Wednesday, January 27
8pm

Atletico Madrid first up at Anfield

Liverpool couldn’t have asked for a more interesting opening game.

Atletico Madrid are coming to Anfield on September 9.

That’s a serious test for Iraola immediately.

Diego Simeone’s side are experienced at this level and will provide a very different challenge to what Liverpool face domestically.

But under the lights at Anfield, it’s exactly the sort of European night Liverpool supporters love.

And starting the campaign with a home game is a major positive.

Then comes the first European away trip

Liverpool travel to LASK in October.

The 5:45pm kick-off isn’t the most convenient time for supporters travelling to Austria, but it gives Liverpool an opportunity to pick up three important points.

If Liverpool can win their opening two games, suddenly the league phase could look very promising.

Villarreal return to Anfield

Just six days later, Villarreal arrive at Anfield.

That gives Liverpool another opportunity to take maximum points on home soil.

And with Atletico Madrid and Villarreal both visiting Anfield early in the competition, Liverpool will want to make home advantage count.

Fenerbahce away

Then comes what could be one of the most intimidating atmospheres of the league phase.

Liverpool travel to Istanbul to face Fenerbahce.

The 5:45pm UK kick-off means it will be an earlier start for viewers at home, but inside the stadium the atmosphere is likely to be anything but quiet.

It could be a proper European test for Iraola’s team.

Club Brugge

Liverpool’s next game is another away trip, this time to Belgium.

Club Brugge will provide another tricky test, but Liverpool will look at this fixture as one where they should be targeting three points.

Getting points on the road will be crucial if Liverpool want to finish high in the league phase table.

Porto at Anfield

Porto then come to Merseyside on December 9.

Another 8pm kick-off.

Another European night under the lights.

And another game Liverpool should be looking to win.

There’s something about Porto and Liverpool that always seems to produce interesting European encounters, so this should be another excellent night at Anfield.

Inter Milan away

And then comes one of the biggest games of the entire league phase.

Inter Milan away.

January 19.

8pm.

San Siro.

That’s a huge one.

Liverpool supporters will also have the added storyline of Curtis Jones potentially facing his former club after his summer move to Inter.

And with Inter being one of Europe’s strongest sides, this could be Liverpool’s toughest away game of the league phase.

Lens finish the league phase at Anfield

Liverpool’s final game will be against Lens at Anfield on January 27.

It’s another home fixture and another opportunity to finish the league phase strongly.

Hopefully, by then Liverpool will already have secured a strong position in the table.

But if qualification is still on the line, Anfield could be absolutely rocking.

I actually like Liverpool’s schedule

Looking at the fixtures as a whole, I think Liverpool have been handed a pretty good schedule.

Four games at Anfield.

Four away.

The biggest home tests — Atletico Madrid and Porto — are games Liverpool will fancy themselves to win in front of their own supporters.

And although Inter away is extremely difficult, Liverpool have enough quality to compete with them.

The key will be getting off to a good start.

If Liverpool can take maximum points from their first few matches, it could put them in an excellent position before the tougher away fixtures arrive.

Eight European nights to look forward to

This is what being in the Champions League is all about.

Atletico Madrid under the Anfield lights.

A trip to Austria.

Villarreal at home.

The madness of Istanbul.

Belgium.

Porto.

San Siro.

And finally Lens at Anfield.

Eight games. Eight different challenges.

And for Iraola, it’s another opportunity to show what he can do at the very highest level.

I’m particularly looking forward to seeing how this Liverpool side develops throughout the competition.

The manager is new.

There are plenty of new players.

And Liverpool are still finding their identity.

But by the time Inter Milan comes around in January, we should have a much better idea of exactly what this Liverpool team can become.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool were forced to settle for another 2-2 draw as Nottingham Forest twice took the lead at Anfield before the Reds fought back to rescue a point.

There were some encouraging individual performances, particularly from Florian Wirtz, Cody Gakpo and Victor Muñoz, but there were also some worrying displays at the back.

Here are my Liverpool player ratings.

Alisson — 5/10

Alisson was well beaten for Dan Ndoye’s opener, although there wasn’t a great deal he could do about the finish.

He then produced a superb save to deny Igor Jesus right on the stroke of half-time and keep Liverpool in the game.

However, he will be disappointed with the penalty he conceded for Forest’s second goal.

A mixed afternoon for Liverpool’s goalkeeper.

Jeremie Frimpong — 6/10

Frimpong struggled defensively but continued to offer plenty going forward.

He played a major role in the build-up to Wirtz’s disallowed goal, although he was just offside.

There were some good attacking moments, but his final delivery needs to become more consistent.

Jeremy Jacquet — 6/10

There were some really encouraging moments from Jacquet.

He produced a goal-saving challenge to deny Igor Jesus an early opportunity and looked composed for long periods.

However, he still had a few moments where he was slack and lacked discipline.

For a young defender playing only his second Premier League game, there is plenty to like.

Virgil van Dijk — 6/10

Van Dijk will be frustrated.

Liverpool’s backline was far too easily opened up for Forest’s first goal, while the ease with which the visitors won their penalty will also concern him.

He wasn’t individually terrible, but Liverpool need their captain to help organise a defence that currently looks vulnerable.

Milos Kerkez — 5/10

A poor afternoon for Kerkez.

He looked sloppy in possession and struggled to make a consistent impact going forward.

Liverpool need much more from their left-back, particularly with competition for places increasing.

Replaced by Kostas Tsimikas in the 71st minute.

Dominik Szoboszlai — 6/10

Much better defensively than he was against Newcastle.

Szoboszlai worked hard, covered plenty of ground and looked more alert when Liverpool didn’t have the ball.

It wasn’t his most spectacular performance, but it was a solid one.

Alexis Mac Allister — 6/10

Back in the starting XI and immediately showed his quality with a lovely reverse ball for Gakpo early on.

However, he couldn’t cope physically with Igor Jesus in the build-up to Ndoye’s goal.

Still looks like a player who can be extremely important to Iraola as Liverpool try to find the right balance in midfield.

Cody Gakpo — 7/10

One of Liverpool’s best players.

Gakpo started on the right and, with transfer speculation continuing, there was always going to be plenty of attention on him.

He was effective throughout.

He played a lovely ball for Wirtz and then did brilliantly to create an opportunity for Muñoz.

He was partly at fault for not doing his defensive duties in the build-up to Forest’s opener, but he more than made up for it by brilliantly creating Isak’s equaliser.

If this does turn out to be Gakpo’s final Liverpool appearance, he certainly gave supporters another reminder of what he can offer.

Florian Wirtz — 7/10

Liverpool’s biggest attacking threat.

Wirtz constantly looked capable of making something happen.

He was desperately unlucky not to get on the scoresheet after seeing a neat finish ruled out because Frimpong was offside.

He also produced a good header which was tipped over by Matz Sels.

And he provided the assist for Muñoz’s spectacular equaliser.

This was a much more encouraging performance from Wirtz.

There are signs that we’re starting to see the player Liverpool signed.

Victor Muñoz — 7/10

What a way to announce yourself at Anfield.

Making his first Liverpool start and playing on his preferred left flank, Muñoz was direct and constantly looked willing to take on his man.

He had a penalty appeal turned down and should arguably have tested Sels when he fired wide from inside the box.

But then came the moment Liverpool supporters will remember.

A stunning strike into the net to level the game and rescue a point.

After an encouraging cameo against Newcastle, Muñoz has now given Iraola something serious to think about.

Alexander Isak — 6/10

Isak endured another frustrating opening half.

He had just six touches and zero shots on goal before half-time.

But he made his ninth touch count.

His equaliser on the hour mark was exactly what Liverpool needed and should give the striker plenty of confidence.

There is clearly much more to come from Isak once Liverpool start providing him with better service.

Substitutes

Kostas Tsimikas — 5/10

Didn’t have enough time to make a significant impact after replacing Kerkez.

Ryan Gravenberch — 5/10

Came on alongside Tsimikas but couldn’t change the game.

Rio Ngumoha — 5/10

Had limited time to influence proceedings.

Ronald Araujo — 5/10

Solid enough after coming on but didn’t have a major impact.

Trey Nyoni — 5/10

Another young player given minutes as Iraola continues to work with a small squad.

My Man of the Match: Victor Muñoz

It’s difficult to look beyond Muñoz.

Wirtz and Gakpo were excellent in attacking areas, but Muñoz’s goal changed the atmosphere inside Anfield and prevented Liverpool from suffering their first home defeat of the season.

He’s only just beginning his Liverpool career, but these are exactly the sort of moments that can launch a young player’s season.

My verdict

There were positives.

Wirtz looked dangerous.

Gakpo was effective.

Isak finally scored.

And Muñoz produced a moment of genuine quality.

But there were also plenty of concerns.

Liverpool conceded two goals again, looked vulnerable defensively and struggled to control the game for long periods.

Four goals conceded in two Premier League matches isn’t good enough.

Iraola has plenty of work to do.

But if Wirtz continues to improve, Isak starts getting more service and Muñoz continues developing like this, there are reasons to remain optimistic.

Liverpool just need to start turning these draws into wins. 

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool’s first home game of the Andoni Iraola era ended in another 2-2 draw as Nottingham Forest twice took the lead before the Reds fought back to rescue a point at Anfield.

After last weekend’s 2-2 draw with Newcastle, Liverpool were desperate to give their supporters something to celebrate in Iraola’s first competitive game at Anfield.

Instead, the new manager was left with plenty more questions.

There were positives, particularly the performances of Alexander Isak and Víctor Muñoz, but Liverpool once again looked vulnerable defensively and lacked control for long periods.

And while a point is better than defeat, Liverpool simply need to start winning football matches.

Forest deserved their lead

Liverpool struggled badly in the opening stages.

Forest looked more dangerous, particularly when they won possession and attacked quickly.

Dan Ndoye eventually opened the scoring in the 24th minute, finishing calmly after Forest won the ball and moved forward at pace.

It was another example of Liverpool being vulnerable in transition.

And once again, the Reds found themselves having to chase the game.

Wirtz thought he had equalised

Liverpool did manage to get the ball into the net through Florian Wirtz.

Unfortunately, the goal was ruled out after VAR determined that Jeremie Frimpong had been marginally offside in the build-up.

It was incredibly frustrating for Liverpool and particularly Wirtz, who desperately needed a goal after an underwhelming opening game against Newcastle.

The German was one of Liverpool’s biggest attacking threats, however, and there were encouraging signs that he was beginning to find his rhythm.

Isak finally gets his moment

The second half brought a much better Liverpool.

And eventually, the moment Liverpool supporters had been waiting for arrived.

Alexander Isak scored his first goal of the season.

A quick move involving Wirtz and Cody Gakpo created the opportunity, with Isak finishing to bring Liverpool level in the 60th minute.

It was exactly what Liverpool needed.

After barely being involved against Newcastle, Isak finally had something to celebrate in a Liverpool shirt.

Hopefully, this is just the beginning.

Then Liverpool shot themselves in the foot again

Unfortunately, Liverpool couldn’t build on the equaliser.

Forest regained the lead in the 70th minute after Alisson brought down Neco Williams inside the box.

Morgan Gibbs-White made no mistake from the penalty spot.

And once again Liverpool were chasing the game.

It’s becoming a worrying theme.

Liverpool are conceding far too easily.

For all the talk about attacking reinforcements, there are still serious defensive and midfield questions that need answering.

Muñoz produces a moment of magic

Just when it looked like Liverpool were heading towards a hugely disappointing defeat, Víctor Muñoz stepped up.

And what a goal it was.

The Spaniard unleashed a stunning effort from around 30 yards in the 82nd minute to make it 2-2.

It was a spectacular way for Muñoz to announce himself at Anfield.

After making an encouraging cameo against Newcastle, he was rewarded with a start today.

And he repaid Iraola’s faith in him.

What a finish.

Liverpool pushed for the winner

The momentum shifted completely after Muñoz’s equaliser.

Anfield came alive.

Liverpool pushed Forest deeper and went looking for a winner.

But despite the late pressure, the Reds couldn’t find the decisive goal.

Forest held on for a point.

Liverpool had to settle for their second consecutive 2-2 draw.

Iraola still has plenty of work to do

There were certainly positives for Iraola.

Wirtz looked more dangerous.

Isak opened his account.

Muñoz announced himself with a brilliant goal.

And Liverpool showed character to come back from behind twice.

But the concerns haven’t disappeared.

The midfield still doesn’t look balanced enough.

Liverpool remain vulnerable when opponents counter-attack.

And defensively, there are too many moments when the team looks open.

That’s something Iraola has to solve quickly.

The biggest positive? Isak and Muñoz

If there’s one thing Liverpool supporters can take from today, it’s the attacking potential.

Imagine what this team could look like once Barcola is added to the squad.

Wirtz finding his feet.

Isak getting more service.

Gakpo continuing to contribute.

Muñoz providing pace and unpredictability.

And Barcola potentially adding another elite one-on-one threat.

There is plenty to be excited about.

But Liverpool need to find the balance.

My verdict

Another 2-2 draw.

Another game where Liverpool showed character but also exposed some serious weaknesses.

Two games, two draws and four goals conceded.

That’s not good enough for a team with Liverpool’s ambitions.

But I’m not going to panic.

This is a new manager.

A new system.

A squad that is still evolving.

And there are still players to come into the team.

Iraola has inherited a difficult job, and today’s game showed exactly why.

There is plenty of work to do.

But there were also signs of what this Liverpool team could become.

Isak has his first goal.

Muñoz has announced himself.

Wirtz is starting to look more dangerous.

And Barcola is on his way.

Now Iraola has to turn the potential into results.

Because Liverpool can’t keep drawing games like this.

We need to start winning. 

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool trail Nottingham Forest 1-0 at half-time at Anfield, and once again there are plenty of questions for Andoni Iraola to answer.

Forest have been the better side for much of the opening 45 minutes and deservedly go into the break ahead after Dan Ndoye put the visitors in front.

Liverpool have struggled to create clear-cut opportunities, while Forest have looked dangerous whenever they have attacked.

And it could have been even worse.

Wirtz Liverpool’s biggest threat

The biggest positive for Liverpool has been Florian Wirtz.

The German has looked the most likely player to make something happen for the Reds and briefly thought he had equalised, only for his effort to be ruled out.

Wirtz has been lively and has shown flashes of exactly what Liverpool bought him for.

But he needs more players around him to help create opportunities.

At the moment, too much is going through Wirtz.

Isak has barely been involved

Once again, Alexander Isak has been starved of service.

That’s becoming a concern.

Liverpool have one of the most expensive strikers in world football, yet Isak has barely been involved in the game.

He needs crosses.

He needs through balls.

He needs Liverpool to get runners around him.

Instead, Forest have managed to restrict the striker and Liverpool haven’t found a consistent way of getting him into dangerous positions.

Iraola has to change that in the second half.

Forest have created the better chances

Perhaps the biggest concern is that Forest haven’t simply sat back and defended their lead.

They’ve actually created some very good opportunities.

Liverpool have had plenty of possession but Forest have looked far more dangerous when they have won the ball and attacked quickly.

That will concern Iraola.

Liverpool’s defensive structure hasn’t looked particularly convincing and there have been too many moments where Forest have been able to exploit space.

Alisson saves Liverpool from going two down

And Liverpool could easily have gone into the break 2-0 down.

Just before half-time, Alisson produced an outstanding save to deny Forest and keep Liverpool within touching distance.

It was a huge moment.

Had Forest scored there, Liverpool would have faced an enormous challenge in the second half.

Instead, Alisson has given his teammates a lifeline.

Liverpool need a completely different second half

The good news?

It’s only 1-0.

Liverpool have 45 minutes to turn this around.

But something has to change.

They need to move the ball quicker.

They need to get Isak involved.

They need more players making runs beyond the Forest defence.

And they need to be much more careful when Forest break forward.

Wirtz has shown that there is an opportunity there.

Liverpool just need to start giving him more help.

My half-time verdict

This hasn’t been good enough from Liverpool.

Forest have been more dangerous, they’ve created the better chances and they’ve done an excellent job of restricting Liverpool’s attacking players.

But one goal changes everything.

Liverpool have the players to turn this around.

Now Iraola needs to find the answers.

Because if Liverpool continue like this for another 45 minutes, their first home game of the season could end in a very disappointing defeat.

Come on, Reds.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Andoni Iraola has named his Liverpool starting XI for his first competitive Premier League game at Anfield — and there are a couple of interesting changes from last weekend’s draw with Newcastle.

The Reds welcome Nottingham Forest to Anfield today looking for their first Premier League victory of the season after the dramatic 2-2 draw at St James’ Park.

Iraola has made two changes to the side that started against Newcastle, with Alexis Mac Allister returning to midfield and Víctor Muñoz handed his first Liverpool start.

Liverpool XI

Alisson

Frimpong – Jacquet – Van Dijk – Kerkez

Mac Allister – Szoboszlai

Muñoz – Wirtz – Gakpo

Isak

Liverpool substitutes

Mamardashvili, Endo, Tsimikas, Araujo, Gravenberch, Nyoni, McConnell, Koumas, Ngumoha.

Mac Allister returns

The return of Mac Allister is particularly interesting.

Liverpool’s midfield was one of the biggest concerns against Newcastle, especially when Forest will likely look to counter-attack whenever they win possession.

Mac Allister brings experience, composure and the ability to control the tempo of the game.

He will need to help provide the balance that Liverpool were missing last weekend.

Munoz gets his chance

Perhaps the most exciting selection is Víctor Muñoz.

After his lively cameo against Newcastle, the youngster has been rewarded with his first start for Liverpool.

He showed at St James’ Park that he is direct, quick and willing to take defenders on.

Now he gets the chance to do it from the start at Anfield.

This is exactly the sort of opportunity young players need.

And with Liverpool’s squad still looking short in attacking areas, Munoz could potentially become a very important player for Iraola this season.

Isak needs service

There is also plenty of attention on Alexander Isak.

The Swedish striker had a frustrating afternoon against his former club last weekend, largely because Liverpool struggled to provide him with quality service.

That simply cannot happen again today.

Liverpool are expected to have plenty of possession against Forest, so Wirtz, Mac Allister, Szoboszlai, Gakpo and Muñoz need to get Isak involved.

If Liverpool can create the opportunities, I expect Isak to cause Forest plenty of problems.

Wirtz has another opportunity

Florian Wirtz also has a point to prove.

His performance against Newcastle wasn’t good enough and Liverpool need considerably more from their record signing.

This could be the perfect opportunity.

Playing in front of an expectant Anfield crowd, Wirtz has the chance to show exactly why Liverpool were prepared to spend so much money bringing him to Merseyside.

We need to see the real Wirtz.

Iraola’s first Anfield game

For Iraola, this is a huge moment.

This is the first time he will lead Liverpool out at Anfield in a competitive Premier League match.

The supporters will be watching closely.

They want to see his football.

They want to see the intensity.

They want to see the pressing.

And, most importantly, they want to see three points.

Liverpool have plenty to improve from Newcastle.

But today is a fresh opportunity.

The new era properly begins at Anfield.

And with Mac Allister back, Munoz starting and Isak looking to make his mark, I’m hoping we see a much more convincing Liverpool performance.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

The wait is over.

Liverpool return to Anfield today for their first home game of the 2026/27 Premier League season — and it will be a particularly special occasion.

For the first time, Andoni Iraola will walk out at Anfield as Liverpool manager for a competitive match.

After a dramatic 2-2 draw with Newcastle last weekend, the new Liverpool boss will be hoping his team can produce a much more convincing performance in front of their own supporters.

And there is another reason for Liverpool fans to feel confident.

We simply don’t lose our first home league game of the season.

A remarkable Anfield record

Liverpool haven’t lost their opening home league game of a season since 2003, when Chelsea came to Anfield and won 2-1.

Since then, the Reds have played 22 opening home league games, winning 17 and drawing five.

Even more impressively, Liverpool have won their first home Premier League game in 12 of the last 13 seasons, with the only exception being a 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace in 2022/23.

That’s some record.

And I’d certainly like to see it continue today.

Iraola’s first Anfield test

This is a huge moment for Iraola.

Taking charge of Liverpool is one thing.

Walking out at Anfield for the first time in a competitive match is something completely different.

He has experienced the pressure of managing in the Premier League with Bournemouth, but the expectations at Liverpool are on another level.

The supporters will be desperate to see what his Liverpool looks like.

Will we see the intensity?

Will we see the pressing?

Will we see the aggressive football that became such a feature of his Bournemouth side?

Most importantly, will we see improvement from Newcastle?

Liverpool showed plenty of character to come from behind twice at St James’ Park, but there were also obvious concerns.

The midfield looked vulnerable.

The full-backs struggled.

And despite dominating possession, Liverpool didn’t create enough for Alexander Isak.

Iraola will know there is plenty to improve.

Forest will not be easy

Nottingham Forest arrive at Anfield also searching for their first win of the season.

They lost their opening league game 1-0 to Leeds and then suffered another defeat to Leeds in the Carabao Cup during the week. (Al Jazeera)

But Liverpool supporters shouldn’t underestimate them.

Forest famously won 3-0 at Anfield last season, so Liverpool know exactly what can happen if they don’t perform.

In fact, the Reds have lost their last two home league meetings with Forest.

However, they have never lost three consecutive home league games against them.

That’s another record Iraola will want to protect.

A big day for Liverpool’s attack

This could also be an important afternoon for Alexander Isak.

The Swede endured a frustrating return to Newcastle last weekend, receiving very little service and failing to make the impact Liverpool supporters were hoping for.

Today should be different.

Liverpool will expect to dominate possession at Anfield, and Isak needs to be involved far more.

Behind him, Florian Wirtz also has a point to prove.

The German was disappointing against Newcastle and Liverpool need much more from their £100m-plus playmaker.

Then there is Cody Gakpo.

He was Liverpool’s best player at St James’ Park, scoring an excellent equaliser and showing exactly why the club still value him so highly.

If Liverpool can get those players firing together, Forest could have a very difficult afternoon.

And then there’s Barcola…

There is also the excitement surrounding Bradley Barcola.

Liverpool have reportedly reached an agreement with Paris Saint-Germain for the French winger, although he isn’t expected to be available for today’s match.

His imminent arrival has given supporters another reason to be excited about the future.

But for now, Iraola has to work with the players available to him.

And today is about getting Liverpool’s first three points of the season.

A special afternoon at Anfield

There is something different about the first home game of a new season.

The new signings.

The new manager.

The new expectations.

Everyone starts again.

And for Iraola, this will be his first opportunity to experience what it really means to manage Liverpool at Anfield.

The supporters will get their first proper look at his team.

And they’ll expect a reaction.

Liverpool don’t necessarily need to be perfect today.

But they need to look more organised.

More intense.

More dangerous.

And ultimately, they need to win.

My prediction

I expect Liverpool to have plenty of the ball.

I expect Forest to sit deeper and look to frustrate Iraola’s side.

And I expect Anfield to play a major role.

Liverpool have an incredible record in their first home game of the season.

It has been 23 years since we last lost one.

Let’s hope that record continues.

Because today isn’t just another Premier League game.

It’s the beginning of the Iraola era at Anfield.

And I cannot wait to see what comes next.

Liverpool 3-1 Nottingham Forest.

Come on, Reds. 

Jamie (The Kopite View)

It’s finally happened.

Liverpool have reached an agreement with Paris Saint-Germain to sign Bradley Barcola in a deal worth £106m (€125m), plus up to £17m (€20m) in performance-related add-ons, according to The Athletic.

The 23-year-old France international is expected to undergo his medical within the next 24 hours before completing his move to Anfield on a five-year contract.

And I’ll be honest.

I haven’t been this excited about a Liverpool signing since Luis Suárez.

That’s a big statement.

But there is something about Barcola that gives me the same feeling I had all those years ago when Liverpool signed Suárez.

It’s the feeling that we aren’t just signing a good player.

We’re signing a great one.

🔴 Barcola feels different

Liverpool have made some fantastic signings over the years.

There have been players I’ve been excited about, players I’ve believed could become excellent and players who have gone on to become legends.

But every now and again, a signing comes along where you immediately feel something different.

Suárez was one of those players for me.

Even before he became the player we remember today, there was something about him.

You could see the talent.

You could see the personality.

You could see the ability to produce something special.

And that’s exactly the feeling I get with Barcola.

🇫🇷 I’ve watched Barcola and thought: wow

Barcola isn’t simply quick.

That’s probably the easiest thing to notice about him.

It’s what he does with that pace that makes him so exciting.

He can beat defenders.

He can carry the ball enormous distances.

He can create chances.

He can score.

And he has the confidence to take players on again and again.

At just 23, there is also the frightening thought that he hasn’t reached his peak yet.

Liverpool aren’t signing the finished article.

They’re signing a player who could potentially become even better.

💰 £106m is an enormous amount of money

Let’s not pretend otherwise.

£106m is huge.

With the add-ons, the deal could eventually reach around £123m.

That puts Barcola right alongside Liverpool’s biggest-ever transfers.

There will inevitably be people questioning whether any winger is worth that kind of money.

But Liverpool clearly believe he is.

And if you are going to spend that kind of money, you want a player who can genuinely change your team.

I believe Barcola can do exactly that.

⚡ Imagine Liverpool’s attack now

This is where the excitement really starts.

Liverpool already have Alexander Isak.

They have Florian Wirtz.

They have Cody Gakpo.

They have Dominik Szoboszlai.

And now they have Barcola.

Suddenly, Liverpool have an attacking group capable of frightening almost any defence in Europe.

Barcola brings something slightly different.

Raw pace.

He can stretch a defence.

He can isolate full-backs.

He can receive the ball and immediately make something happen.

That’s something Liverpool have desperately needed.

Could Barcola become a Liverpool superstar?

That’s the hope.

And I don’t think it’s unrealistic.

He has already played at the highest level with PSG and France.

He has Champions League experience.

He has competed for major trophies.

And now he is moving into a team where he could potentially become one of the main attacking outlets.

The opportunity is enormous.

Liverpool aren’t signing Barcola to simply be another squad player.

They’re signing him to be a star.

Why it reminds me of Suárez

This is the part that is difficult to explain.

It’s not about saying Barcola will become Suárez.

Nobody knows that.

And comparing any new signing to one of Liverpool’s greatest-ever players is unfair.

It’s about the feeling.

When Suárez arrived, I remember thinking that Liverpool had signed someone special.

Someone who could make things happen.

Someone who could produce moments that other players couldn’t.

That’s how I feel about Barcola.

I haven’t felt this excited about a Liverpool signing since then.

Maybe I’m getting carried away.

Maybe the Premier League will prove more difficult than expected.

Maybe Barcola needs time to adapt.

But sometimes you just have that feeling about a player.

And I have it with Barcola.

Liverpool have made their statement

There has been plenty of criticism of Liverpool’s transfer business this summer.

Some of it has been justified.

The squad still has areas that need strengthening.

But signing Barcola is a statement.

Liverpool have gone into the market and beaten some of Europe’s biggest clubs to one of the most exciting young attackers around.

And importantly, Barcola wanted Liverpool.

That matters.

He could have chosen other options.

Instead, he wanted to come to Anfield.

Now it’s up to him to show Liverpool supporters what he’s capable of.

My verdict

I don’t know whether Barcola will become a Liverpool legend.

Nobody can know that yet.

But I know one thing.

I’m ridiculously excited to watch him in a Liverpool shirt.

It’s been a long time since a new signing has given me this feeling.

The feeling that you’re watching a player and thinking:

This lad is going to be special.

That’s exactly how I felt when Liverpool signed Suárez.

And that’s exactly how I feel now.

Bradley Barcola is coming to Liverpool.

The deal is agreed.

The medical is next.

Then we get to see him at Anfield.

And I genuinely cannot wait.

Welcome to Liverpool, Bradley.

Now go and make us believe. 

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Jurgen Klopp has offered his thoughts on Florian Wirtz — and his message to both Liverpool and the German midfielder is fascinating.

Wirtz arrived at Liverpool with enormous expectations following his huge-money move from Bayer Leverkusen.

He was brought in to become one of the most important attacking players at Anfield.

But his early performances have raised questions about where exactly he should play and how Liverpool can get the very best out of him.

Now Klopp has offered an interesting insight.

And I think Liverpool supporters should be paying close attention.

Klopp knows where Wirtz needs to play

Speaking about Wirtz, Klopp said:

“I think Liverpool, at least, have absolutely understood where he actually needs to play. That is, of course, centrally, in the half spaces, the pockets where he needs to operate.”

That is a pretty clear message.

Wirtz needs to play centrally.

He needs freedom to operate between the lines.

He needs to find those pockets of space where he can turn, carry the ball and create chances.

And perhaps that is something Liverpool need to remember when deciding how to build their team around him.

Wirtz shouldn’t be forced into a role that doesn’t suit him

Wirtz isn’t a traditional winger.

He’s at his best when he can drift into central areas and influence the game.

That doesn’t mean he can’t play from the left or operate in wider areas.

But if Liverpool have spent so much money bringing him to Anfield, surely the objective should be to maximise his strengths.

Give him the ball.

Put him in positions where he can hurt teams.

Allow him to combine with the likes of Isak, Barcola and Szoboszlai.

That’s where I believe Liverpool can start to see the best of Wirtz.

👀 But Klopp also puts responsibility on Wirtz

This is the part of Klopp’s comments that I find particularly interesting.

He didn’t simply defend Wirtz.

He also challenged him.

> “Flo also has to learn, of course. He has to play in such a way that, in the end, the manager doesn’t even consider taking him off.”

That’s a huge statement.

Klopp is essentially saying that Liverpool can help Wirtz by putting him in the right position.

But ultimately, Wirtz has to take responsibility too.

He has to perform.

He has to influence matches.

And he has to make himself impossible to substitute.

That’s the challenge for Wirtz

Nobody should expect Wirtz to walk into the Premier League and immediately dominate every game.

He’s adapting to a new country.

A new league.

A new manager.

New teammates.

And a completely different style of football.

But at some point, adaptation has to turn into performance.

Liverpool didn’t spend huge money on Wirtz for him to simply look promising.

They signed him because they believe he can become one of the best players in the Premier League.

Now he has to show it.

Imagine Wirtz behind Isak

This is where things get exciting.

Liverpool now have a £125m striker in Alexander Isak.

They have Barcola providing pace and directness.

They have Szoboszlai capable of making runs beyond the striker.

And then you have Wirtz operating centrally between the lines.

That could be frightening.

But only if Liverpool get the structure right.

Wirtz needs runners ahead of him.

He needs options around him.

And most importantly, he needs freedom.

If he is constantly being asked to do things that don’t suit his game, Liverpool could end up wasting one of the most talented players in the squad.

Klopp believes Liverpool will figure it out

Perhaps the most encouraging part of Klopp’s comments is his belief that Liverpool will eventually find the answer.

He said:

> “I think they [Liverpool] will learn how to integrate him, and Flo simply has to play his game.”

That’s exactly what supporters want to hear.

Liverpool don’t need to reinvent Wirtz.

They need to unlock him.

Let him play his football.

Put him in the right areas.

Give him runners.

And then allow him to show everyone why Liverpool spent so much money bringing him to Anfield.

My verdict

I think Klopp has got this spot on.

Liverpool have to understand that Wirtz is at his best centrally, particularly in those half-spaces and pockets between midfield and defence.

But Wirtz also has to understand that playing for Liverpool comes with enormous expectations.

He has to earn his place.

He has to influence games.

And eventually, he needs to become the player Iraola simply doesn’t want to take off.

That’s the challenge.

Liverpool have bought the talent.

Now they have to unlock it.

And perhaps the answer is simpler than we think.

Put Florian Wirtz where Florian Wirtz wants to play.

Then let him play.

The rest is up to Flo. 

Jamie (The Kopite View)

There is one uncomfortable truth Liverpool supporters have to acknowledge heading into this season.

The squad looks weaker than it did last season.

Mohamed Salah has left the club.

Ibrahima Konaté has left.

Curtis Jones has also departed for Inter Milan.

And when you add injuries to the equation, Liverpool are suddenly looking at a squad that feels considerably smaller than the one that finished last season.

That makes it extremely difficult to go into the new campaign expecting another hugely successful season.

But despite all of those concerns, there is one reason I’m refusing to lose hope.

Andoni Iraola.

Liverpool have lost some huge players

Replacing Mohamed Salah alone would be an enormous challenge for any manager.

Salah wasn’t simply a goalscorer. He was one of Liverpool’s biggest sources of creativity, goals and match-winning moments.

Then you have Konaté, who provided pace, strength and quality at the heart of the defence.

And Jones’ departure has reduced the options available in midfield.

These aren’t insignificant losses.

They are players who were capable of making a major contribution over the course of a long season.

When you then factor in injuries, the margin for error becomes even smaller.

Liverpool haven’t recruited enough

This is where my biggest concern lies.

Liverpool spent heavily last summer, investing huge amounts of money in the squad and bringing in several major additions.

This summer has been different.

There has been significant spending on players such as Alexander Isak, Florian Wirtz and Bradley Barcola, but despite those major deals, the squad still looks short in several areas.

Liverpool have needed more depth in midfield.

There have been questions over the full-back positions.

And with Salah gone, the attacking options have also needed strengthening.

When you’re trying to compete for the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup and Carabao Cup, you need a squad capable of handling an enormous number of matches.

At the moment, Liverpool don’t look to have enough players.

Iraola has been handed a very difficult job

Imagine being a new manager arriving at one of the biggest clubs in Europe.

You’re expected to compete for trophies immediately.

You’re expected to implement a completely different style of football.

And at the same time, several important players have left while injuries have reduced your options even further.

That’s the situation Iraola finds himself in.

It would have been much easier if Liverpool had given him another three or four senior players.

Instead, he has to find solutions with what he has.

And that’s a huge challenge.

But this is why I still believe in Iraola

There is something about Iraola’s time at Bournemouth that gives me confidence.

He didn’t inherit a squad packed with superstars.

He had to work with the players available to him.

He developed young players.

He coped when players left.

He dealt with injuries and setbacks.

And most importantly, he made Bournemouth competitive.

He created a team with a clear identity and got his players believing in what he wanted from them.

That is exactly what Liverpool need now.

Perhaps this is where a good manager makes the difference

A great manager isn’t simply someone who wins when everything is perfect.

It’s someone who finds solutions when things aren’t perfect.

Liverpool’s squad isn’t perfect.

Far from it.

But that doesn’t automatically mean Iraola cannot succeed.

Perhaps he finds a role for a player who previously wasn’t considered a regular.

Perhaps one of Liverpool’s youngsters makes a huge breakthrough.

Perhaps he changes the system to get more from the players available.

That’s where his coaching ability will be tested.

Liverpool still have plenty of quality

It’s important not to go too far in the other direction.

This isn’t a bad Liverpool squad.

There is still an enormous amount of talent at Anfield.

Wirtz is an outstanding footballer.

Isak has the potential to become one of the Premier League’s best strikers.

Barcola adds another exciting attacking option.

There is still quality throughout the team.

The issue isn’t necessarily the quality of the starting XI.

It’s what happens when those players aren’t available.

If Liverpool suffer several injuries in the same position, Iraola could quickly find himself with very few options.

What would success look like?

That’s something supporters may need to reconsider.

Liverpool should always aim to win trophies.

That’s never going to change.

But perhaps we also need to recognise the circumstances Iraola has inherited.

If Liverpool can compete for the Premier League title, go deep into the Champions League and challenge for domestic trophies despite having a smaller squad, that would be a significant achievement.

And if Iraola manages to develop some of the younger players along the way, it could lay the foundations for something even bigger.

My verdict

I’m concerned about Liverpool’s squad.

I don’t think the hierarchy has given Iraola enough players.

Losing Salah, Konaté and Jones has taken significant quality out of the squad, while injuries have made an already difficult situation even harder.

And when you’re competing on four fronts, having a small squad is a major risk.

But I’m not giving up on this team.

Because I believe in the manager.

Iraola has already shown at Bournemouth that he can work with what he has, cope with players leaving, develop talent and build a team capable of competing above expectations.

Now he has the biggest challenge of his career.

Liverpool may not have the deepest squad.

They may not have replaced every departure.

And they may have made Iraola’s job much harder than it needed to be.

But perhaps this is where we find out just how good our new manager really is.

The squad might be weaker than last season.

But I’m still hopeful that Iraola can make Liverpool stronger than the sum of their parts. 

Jamie (The Kopite View)