The Kopite View

Mohamed Salah’s outstanding performance in Egypt’s 3-1 World Cup victory over New Zealand has reportedly earned glowing praise from Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard.

After watching the Egyptian captain inspire his country to a historic victory, Gerrard is said to have reflected on just how much Liverpool miss one of the greatest players ever to wear the famous red shirt.

The reported comments capture exactly how many Liverpool supporters have been feeling while watching Salah continue to shine on the international stage.

“I Already Miss Him in a Liverpool Shirt”

According to the reported remarks, Gerrard admitted that watching Salah at the World Cup has reminded him just how special the forward remains.

He reportedly said:

“Already I’m starting to miss him in a Liverpool Red. Watching Mo Salah play football is one of the things I enjoy most.”

For Liverpool supporters, that sentiment will resonate deeply.

Salah spent years carrying Liverpool’s attack, producing extraordinary numbers while repeatedly delivering in the biggest moments.

Even now, seeing him perform at the highest level inevitably brings back memories of his remarkable Anfield career.

More Than Just a Goalscorer

Gerrard’s reported comments also highlighted something many supporters have long recognised.

Salah was never simply another player in the team.

He was often the driving force behind it.

As the former Liverpool captain reportedly put it, Salah was “the main character” and the player who kept the team moving forward.

That influence extended far beyond goals.

His movement.

His link-up play.

His leadership through performance.

All helped elevate those around him.

The Definition of Consistency

Perhaps the strongest praise centred on Salah’s incredible consistency.

According to Gerrard, once Salah reaches his highest level, he becomes almost impossible for defenders to contain.

Liverpool supporters hardly need reminding of that.

Season after season, Salah produced goals, assists and match-winning moments with remarkable regularity.

Very few players in Premier League history have maintained such an elite standard for so long.

It is one of the reasons so many supporters regard him as one of Liverpool’s greatest-ever players.

A Historic Moment for Egypt

Salah’s performance against New Zealand carried extra significance.

Egypt secured their first-ever World Cup victory, and once again their captain was at the centre of the celebration.

His influence throughout the match demonstrated why he remains the heartbeat of his national team.

Even at 34, he continues to lead by example whenever Egypt need him most.

Liverpool Fans Still Admire Him

Although Liverpool have moved into a new era, performances like this remind supporters why Salah’s legacy will endure.

Watching him continue to perform at the highest level is a source of pride for many Reds fans.

There may always be discussions about whether he could have stayed longer or whether circumstances might have been different.

But one thing is beyond debate.

Mohamed Salah’s place in Liverpool history is secure.

And judging by the reported comments from Steven Gerrard, even club legends still find themselves marvelling at the brilliance of a player whose consistency has defined an era.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool have been linked with plenty of midfielders in recent months, and the latest name to emerge is Felix Nmecha.

The Borussia Dortmund midfielder has reportedly attracted interest from the Reds, adding another option to an ever-growing list of players linked with a move to Anfield.

But the question for Liverpool supporters is a simple one:

Would Felix Nmecha be a good signing?

A Midfielder With Plenty of Attributes

There is no doubt that Nmecha has the profile Liverpool generally look for.

At 25 years old, he is entering his prime years and combines athleticism with technical ability.

Standing at over six feet tall, he offers a physical presence in midfield while remaining comfortable in possession.

His strengths include:

• Ball carrying through midfield
• Defensive work rate
• Press resistance
• Progressive passing
• Tactical versatility

Those qualities have helped him establish himself as an important player for Borussia Dortmund.

Why He Could Suit Andoni Iraola

Perhaps the biggest reason the rumour makes sense is Andoni Iraola’s style of football.

Liverpool’s new head coach demands intensity, pressing and midfielders capable of covering large areas of the pitch.

Nmecha appears well suited to those demands.

He is energetic enough to press aggressively while also possessing the technical quality needed to progress the ball quickly after regaining possession.

That combination would make him an interesting fit in Liverpool’s midfield.

Where Would He Fit?

Liverpool already possess considerable quality in midfield.

Florian Wirtz.

Alexis Mac Allister.

Ryan Gravenberch.

Dominik Szoboszlai.

Stefan Bajčetić.

Curtis Jones.

Wataru Endo.

That means Nmecha would not automatically walk into the starting eleven.

Instead, he would likely compete for places while offering another physical option capable of rotating across multiple midfield roles.

Given Liverpool’s demanding fixture schedule, that depth could prove valuable.

Reasons for Caution

Of course, there are also reasons why supporters may hesitate.

Nmecha has not always been a guaranteed starter throughout his career and has experienced injury setbacks at various points.

Liverpool would also need to consider the transfer fee.

If Borussia Dortmund demanded a premium price, supporters might question whether resources could be better spent strengthening other positions.

Liverpool continue to be linked with players such as Adam Wharton and Lamine Camara, while several supporters still believe another wide forward should remain a priority.

My Verdict

Personally, I think Felix Nmecha would improve Liverpool’s squad.

He possesses the athleticism, work rate and versatility that modern Premier League football demands, and his style appears well suited to Andoni Iraola’s approach.

That said, I would not place him at the very top of Liverpool’s midfield shortlist.

If the fee were sensible, he would represent an excellent addition.

If Borussia Dortmund demanded a huge transfer fee, I believe Liverpool would be better served pursuing alternatives.

A Rumour Worth Watching

For now, it remains exactly that—a rumour.

But it is another indication of the type of midfielder Liverpool continue to target.

Young enough to improve.

Athletic enough for Iraola’s system.

And versatile enough to strengthen the squad over the long term.

Whether Felix Nmecha eventually arrives at Anfield remains to be seen, but he is certainly a player Liverpool supporters should keep an eye on as the transfer window develops.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Mohamed Salah once again reminded the football world why he remains one of the greatest forwards of his generation after producing another influential display in Egypt’s 3-1 World Cup victory over New Zealand.

While he may not have dominated the scoresheet, Salah’s overall contribution was outstanding, playing a central role as Egypt secured an important three points in their second group-stage match.

For Liverpool supporters, it was another reminder that class is permanent.

Salah at the Heart of Everything

Throughout the match, Salah looked sharp, energetic and full of confidence.

Operating from his familiar right-sided role, he constantly drifted into dangerous areas, linked play intelligently and created problems for New Zealand’s defence with his movement.

His influence extended far beyond goals.

Every time Egypt attacked, Salah appeared to be involved.

Whether it was receiving possession under pressure, combining with teammates or stretching the opposition back line, he remained Egypt’s focal point.

His Link-Up Play Was Outstanding

One aspect of Salah’s performance that particularly stood out was his link-up play.

Over the years he has evolved from being purely a goalscorer into one of the game’s most complete forwards.

Against New Zealand, his understanding with the players around him was excellent.

Quick one-touch combinations.

Intelligent movement.

Perfectly weighted passes.

He repeatedly created space for teammates simply through his positioning and awareness.

It was the type of all-round performance that often goes unnoticed when supporters focus only on goals.

Still Among the World’s Elite

There has been plenty of debate about Salah’s future over the past year.

Some questioned whether Liverpool were right to move on.

Others wondered whether his very best years had passed.

Performances like this suggest there is still plenty left in the Egyptian captain.

At 34, he continues to play with incredible intelligence.

While his game has naturally evolved, his ability to influence matches remains exceptional.

He may no longer rely solely on explosive pace.

Instead, he beats opponents with movement, timing and football intelligence.

Liverpool Fans Can Only Wonder

Watching Salah produce another masterclass inevitably leaves Liverpool supporters asking “what if?”

What if he had stayed?

What if he had played under Andoni Iraola’s attacking philosophy?

Could he have enjoyed one more outstanding chapter at Anfield?

Those questions are understandable.

But they are also becoming increasingly unrealistic.

A Return Remains Highly Unlikely

Every outstanding Salah performance seems to reignite talk of a sensational return to Liverpool.

The reality, however, is very different.

Liverpool have moved into a new era.

The club is rebuilding around younger players such as Florian Wirtz, Alexander Isak and several emerging talents.

Salah’s legacy at Anfield is secure.

He will always be remembered as one of the greatest players ever to wear the Liverpool shirt.

But football moves forward.

As exciting as the thought may be, dreams of a return now feel exactly that—dreams.

Still a Joy to Watch

What Liverpool supporters can do is continue appreciating one of football’s true greats.

Salah’s performance against New Zealand demonstrated that he remains capable of controlling matches at the highest level.

His influence.

His professionalism.

His football intelligence.

None of those qualities have disappeared.

He may no longer be wearing Liverpool red, but watching him perform like this remains a reminder of just how privileged Liverpool supporters were to witness his incredible career at Anfield.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool are standing firm over the future of Curtis Jones after Inter Milan’s latest offer reportedly failed to meet the club’s valuation.

According to reports, the Serie A giants have submitted a bid worth around £21 million, but no agreement has been reached between the clubs.

Respected journalist Paul Joyce has since reported that Liverpool want more, suggesting the Reds are in no rush to sanction the sale of one of their longest-serving academy graduates.

Liverpool Refuse to Undervalue Jones

The latest developments indicate Liverpool believe Curtis Jones is worth considerably more than Inter’s current proposal.

That stance is understandable.

Jones is still only 25 years old, homegrown, experienced in both the Premier League and European competition, and capable of playing multiple midfield roles.

Players with that profile are increasingly difficult to replace.

Liverpool appear determined to ensure that, if Jones does leave, the club receives a fee that properly reflects both his current ability and his long-term value.

Inter’s Interest Remains Strong

Inter’s persistence underlines the respect Jones commands across Europe.

The Italian club clearly view him as a midfielder capable of strengthening their squad, and their continued negotiations suggest they are not ready to walk away.

However, if Liverpool remain unconvinced by the current offer, Inter may need to improve their bid before any serious breakthrough is made.

Iraola’s Influence Could Be Crucial

Another factor is Liverpool’s new head coach, Andoni Iraola.

With pre-season approaching, Iraola will soon have the opportunity to assess Jones first-hand.

The midfielder possesses many of the qualities associated with Iraola’s football:

• Energy
• Pressing intensity
• Ball-carrying ability
• Tactical flexibility
• Work rate

If Iraola believes Jones can play an important role in his system, Liverpool may become even less willing to sell unless a substantial offer arrives.

Midfield Decisions Still to Come

Liverpool continue to be linked with several midfielders this summer, but no major additions have yet been confirmed.

That means the club’s overall midfield picture remains fluid.

Any arrivals could influence Jones’ future, while his potential departure could equally affect Liverpool’s recruitment plans.

For now, though, Liverpool appear under no pressure to sell.

Liverpool in Control

The key point is that Liverpool hold the strongest position.

Curtis Jones remains under contract.

The club value him highly.

And according to Paul Joyce, they are seeking a higher fee than Inter’s current proposal.

Whether the Italian side decide to return with an improved offer remains to be seen.

Until then, Liverpool appear content to stand their ground.

For supporters, it is another reminder that while transfer speculation may dominate the headlines, Liverpool are determined not to undervalue one of their own.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Few people understand what it takes to unlock world-class attacking talent better than Jürgen Klopp.

So when the former Liverpool manager speaks about Florian Wirtz, supporters should pay attention.

Klopp recently explained exactly how he believes Wirtz should be used, and his comments could provide a fascinating insight into how Liverpool’s new era under Andoni Iraola may develop.

“Get Him on the Ball”

Klopp’s message was simple.

“Wirtz gets fully into rhythm when he constantly gets the ball. It’s important to involve him because that’s when Flo can feel confident and comfortable on the pitch.”

That observation perfectly captures what makes Wirtz such a special player.

Unlike traditional attacking midfielders who wait for the game to come to them, Wirtz becomes increasingly influential the more involved he is.

The more touches he has.

The more confident he becomes.

And the more dangerous Liverpool become.

Don’t Ask Him to Play Too Deep

Perhaps the most interesting part of Klopp’s comments concerned Wirtz’s positioning.

“He shouldn’t drop back and get the ball from his own penalty area and expect him to start making plays.”

It is a reminder that not every creative player should be asked to dictate matches from deep.

Wirtz’s greatest strength lies closer to the opposition’s goal.

That is where his vision, quick feet and intelligence can do the most damage.

Rather than asking him to collect possession from defenders, Liverpool should focus on getting him the ball between the lines, where he can turn and attack.

Space Creator, Not Just Chance Creator

Klopp also highlighted something many supporters may overlook.

“With his positioning he creates a lot of space for the players next to him, for the full-backs and for everyone who can make runs into those spaces.”

That is one of Wirtz’s most valuable qualities.

Even when he does not have the ball, his movement forces defenders to make decisions.

Track him, and space opens elsewhere.

Leave him, and he can receive possession in dangerous areas.

It is this constant movement that makes him so difficult to defend.

Why This Fits Iraola Perfectly

These comments should excite Liverpool supporters.

Andoni Iraola’s football is built around quick transitions, intelligent movement and attacking the spaces opponents leave behind.

That philosophy appears tailor-made for Wirtz.

Rather than restricting him, Iraola’s system should allow him to drift into dangerous pockets, combine with teammates and influence attacks in exactly the areas Klopp describes.

With Alexander Isak making runs ahead of him and attacking full-backs providing width, Wirtz could become the creative heartbeat of Liverpool’s new-look side.

Liverpool Must Build Around Him

One lesson from Klopp’s comments is clear.

Liverpool should not simply accommodate Wirtz.

They should build around him.

The club invested heavily because they believe he is one of the finest young footballers in world football.

That belief now needs to be reflected tactically.

Get him involved early.

Keep him high up the pitch.

Allow him to create.

Allow him to roam.

Allow him to influence games.

Advice Worth Following

Jürgen Klopp knows better than most how to maximise elite attacking players.

His comments on Florian Wirtz are therefore more than just interesting observations.

They are a blueprint.

If Liverpool follow that blueprint, supporters could finally see the version of Wirtz that has dazzled across Europe for both club and country.

And if that happens, Liverpool may have one of the most influential attacking midfielders in world football at the heart of their team for years to come.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Transfer headlines often focus on the next big signing.

But sometimes the biggest story is already sitting inside the squad.

When you take a step back and look at Liverpool’s current group of players, one thing becomes very clear.

The club are quietly assembling one of the youngest and most exciting squads in European football.

And the best part?

Many of the most talented players are still years away from reaching their peak.

The Future Is Already Here

Look at the players Liverpool are building around.

Florian Wirtz.

Ryan Gravenberch.

Alexander Isak.

Dominik Szoboszlai.

Alexis Mac Allister.

Conor Bradley.

Stefan Bajčetić.

Rio Ngumoha.

Trey Nyoni.

Víctor Muñoz.

Josh Abe.

These are not players approaching the end of their careers.

They are footballers whose best years may still lie ahead.

That should excite every Liverpool supporter.

Iraola Fits the Project Perfectly

One reason Andoni Iraola’s appointment makes so much sense is his track record of developing young players.

At Bournemouth he consistently improved individuals while building an energetic, fearless team.

Liverpool’s hierarchy clearly believe he can do exactly the same at Anfield.

Rather than inheriting an ageing squad needing complete reconstruction, Iraola has inherited one packed with potential.

Recruitment With a Purpose

Liverpool’s transfer strategy has also become increasingly obvious.

Every major target shares similar characteristics:

• Young
• Athletic
• Technically gifted
• Comfortable pressing
• Positionally versatile
• High ceiling for development

Yan Diomande.

Alex Scott.

Adam Wharton.

Bradley Barcola.

Lamine Camara.

The club are not simply buying talented footballers.

They are buying players who fit a very specific football identity.

Experience Still Matters

Of course, youth alone does not win trophies.

Liverpool will still rely heavily on experienced leaders.

Virgil van Dijk.

Alisson Becker.

Mac Allister.

Those players provide the stability needed while the next generation develops.

That balance between youth and experience could become one of Liverpool’s greatest strengths over the next few seasons.

Patience Could Be Rewarded

Supporters naturally want immediate success.

That is understandable.

But the most exciting aspect of Liverpool’s current position is that this project could improve every single season.

Many of the club’s key players are nowhere near their peak.

If Iraola can develop them as successfully as he did at Bournemouth, Liverpool may not simply have a team capable of competing next season.

They could have one capable of dominating for years.

The Next Great Liverpool Side?

No one can guarantee success.

Football never works like that.

But for the first time in several years, there appears to be a genuine long-term plan.

A young squad.

A progressive manager.

A recruitment strategy built around development rather than short-term fixes.

Liverpool supporters have seen great teams built before.

This one may take time.

But the foundations are already there.

And that is why the future at Anfield looks brighter than many people realise.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool’s pursuit of Yan Diomande appears to be entering a decisive phase, with fresh reports claiming the Reds have submitted an improved offer to RB Leipzig worth around £95 million plus achievable add-ons.
According to Wilson Cox LFC, Liverpool believe the proposal should be enough to convince the Bundesliga club to enter the final stages of negotiations, although Leipzig have yet to deliver their official response.
If the reports prove accurate, Liverpool could be edging closer to completing one of the biggest transfers of the summer.

Liverpool Reportedly Confident
The report suggests there is growing confidence inside Anfield that the latest offer reflects Diomande’s value while also demonstrating Liverpool’s determination to get the deal over the line.
RB Leipzig have previously been reluctant to lower their valuation of the highly-rated youngster, making this latest bid a significant statement of intent from Liverpool.
The club now awaits Leipzig’s response.

Personal Terms Already Agreed
Perhaps the most encouraging aspect of the report for Liverpool supporters is the claim that personal terms have already been agreed.
A long-term contract has reportedly been offered, with Diomande set to become one of the highest-paid under-21 players in world football if the move is completed.
Just as importantly, the report claims the player has made his intentions clear.
Diomande reportedly wants to join Liverpool.
That willingness could prove crucial as negotiations continue between the two clubs.

A Major Statement of Ambition
Liverpool have spent much of the summer targeting young players with elite potential, and Diomande perfectly fits that profile.
The club clearly view him as more than a prospect.
Reports suggest Liverpool see him as someone capable of becoming one of the faces of the club’s next generation.
The willingness to offer both a substantial transfer fee and a long-term contract underlines just how highly he is rated.

Barcola Still on the Radar
Interestingly, the report also claims Liverpool’s interest in Bradley Barcola has not diminished.
Even if Diomande arrives, Barcola reportedly remains on the club’s shortlist.
That suggests Liverpool are not simply looking to replace outgoing players.
Instead, they appear determined to build one of the most exciting attacking units in Europe under Andoni Iraola.
Adding both players would represent a remarkable statement ahead of the new season.

Liverpool Playing the Long Game
Whether or not the Diomande deal is completed, Liverpool’s strategy is becoming increasingly clear.
The focus remains on recruiting:
● Young elite talent
● Players with enormous long-term potential
● Footballers suited to Iraola’s high-intensity style
● Individuals capable of becoming future stars at Anfield
Diomande appears to tick every one of those boxes.

All Eyes on Leipzig
For now, attention turns to RB Leipzig.
Liverpool have reportedly made their move.
The player reportedly wants the transfer.
Personal terms are said to be agreed.
The remaining question is whether Leipzig believe Liverpool’s latest offer is enough.
If the answer is yes, Liverpool supporters could soon witness the arrival of one of the most exciting young attackers in world football.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

One of the biggest talking points for Liverpool supporters during this World Cup has not been the transfer rumours.

It has been the performances of Liverpool’s own players.

Week after week, Reds have been among the standout performers for their national teams.

And the more they impress, the more frustrating last season becomes.

Because it raises one unavoidable question.

Were Liverpool’s problems really about the players?

Or were they about how those players were being used?

The Talent Was Always There

Take Florian Wirtz.

For Germany, he has looked every inch the world-class playmaker Liverpool believed they were signing.

He has dictated matches, created chances and played with confidence and freedom.

Then there is Cody Gakpo.

After struggling in the Netherlands’ opening game, he exploded into life against Sweden with two goals and an assist, looking direct, unpredictable and full of belief.

Alexis Mac Allister has controlled games for Argentina from a deeper midfield role, while Ryan Gravenberch and Virgil van Dijk have both been outstanding for the Netherlands.

Alexander Isak has also continued his excellent form for Sweden, reminding everyone why Liverpool invested so heavily in the striker.

The common theme is impossible to ignore.

Liverpool’s players are performing.

Liverpool Looked Nothing Like This

Compare those performances with what supporters witnessed for much of last season.

Too often Liverpool looked slow.

Predictable.

Lacking confidence.

Creative players appeared restricted.

Attackers rarely looked free to express themselves.

The intensity that once defined Liverpool gradually disappeared.

Watching the same players flourish at the World Cup only reinforces the feeling that something was fundamentally wrong at club level.

Were the Tactics Holding Them Back?

No manager deliberately wants talented players to underperform.

But tactical systems can either enhance a player’s strengths or expose their weaknesses.

Last season, several Liverpool players appeared uncomfortable.

Gakpo often drifted into predictable patterns.

Wirtz never seemed to find his natural rhythm.

Mac Allister frequently played in roles that limited his influence.

Looking at the World Cup, many supporters are beginning to wonder whether the issue was not the individuals, but the system surrounding them.

Confidence Matters

Footballers thrive on confidence.

When they feel trusted, they take risks.

They play instinctively.

They express themselves.

That has been evident throughout the tournament.

Liverpool’s players suddenly look relaxed again.

They are making quicker decisions.

Playing with greater freedom.

And producing performances far closer to the standards supporters expected all along.

Iraola Inherits a Better Squad Than Many Think

The encouraging aspect for Liverpool supporters is what this means for Andoni Iraola.

The Spaniard is not inheriting a squad lacking quality.

He is inheriting a squad full of players who are proving on the international stage that they remain among the best in their positions.

His task is not to replace them.

It is to unlock them.

If his aggressive, front-foot philosophy allows players such as Wirtz, Gakpo, Mac Allister and Gravenberch to play with the same confidence they are showing at the World Cup, Liverpool may already possess the foundations of another outstanding team.

A Frustrating Reminder

Perhaps that is what makes the World Cup so bittersweet for Liverpool supporters.

There is pride in seeing so many Reds excel.

But there is also frustration.

Because every impressive display serves as another reminder that this level of performance could perhaps have been seen at Anfield far more often.

The talent never disappeared.

The World Cup is proving that.

The challenge for Andoni Iraola now is to ensure Liverpool supporters see that version of their players every single week.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool supporters have spent much of the past year asking the same question.
What happened to the players who looked capable of dominating English and European football?
Florian Wirtz struggled to justify his enormous price tag.
Cody Gakpo became increasingly predictable.
Jeremie Frimpong never truly looked comfortable.
Several others appeared to play well below the levels supporters knew they were capable of reaching.
Now, after just a few World Cup matches, something interesting is happening.
Many of those same players suddenly look like themselves again.
And while Andoni Iraola has yet to take charge of a competitive Liverpool match, the evidence suggests he may already hold the key to solving Liverpool’s biggest problem.

It Was Never About a Lack of Talent
One thing the World Cup has demonstrated is that Liverpool’s players did not suddenly become poor footballers.
Florian Wirtz has looked outstanding for Germany.
Operating with freedom, he has dictated attacks, created chances and reminded everyone why Liverpool invested so heavily in him.
Cody Gakpo has also rediscovered his confidence.
After a difficult opening game, he exploded into life against Sweden with two goals and an assist, looking direct, unpredictable and full of belief.
Alexis Mac Allister has controlled games for Argentina from a deeper midfield role, once again showing the intelligence and composure that made him one of Liverpool’s best performers before last season’s struggles.
Alexander Isak has continued his excellent form for Sweden, while Virgil van Dijk and Ryan Gravenberch have also produced strong displays for the Netherlands.
The talent has always been there.

Liverpool’s Biggest Problem
That is why many supporters believe Liverpool’s biggest issue was never the quality of the squad.
It was getting the best out of that quality.
Too often last season, Liverpool looked rigid.
Predictable.
Overly cautious.
Players appeared restricted rather than encouraged.
Confidence gradually disappeared.
The World Cup has shown what happens when those same players are placed into systems that suit their strengths.

Why Iraola Could Change Everything
This is where Andoni Iraola becomes so important.
The Spaniard has built his reputation by creating teams that play with energy, aggression and freedom.
His players are encouraged to take risks.
To attack defenders.
To carry the ball.
To force situations.
Rather than asking creative players to fit into a rigid structure, Iraola’s philosophy often allows them to express themselves.
That sounds exactly like what Liverpool’s attacking players need.

Fresh Eyes, Fresh Ideas
Perhaps the greatest advantage of appointing a new manager is perspective.
Iraola arrives without preconceptions.
Every player begins with a clean slate.
For footballers who finished last season under intense scrutiny, that fresh start could prove invaluable.
Players who looked short of confidence may suddenly rediscover it.
Roles may change.
Responsibilities may change.
And with those changes could come dramatically improved performances.

The Squad Suddenly Looks Strong Again
Watching Liverpool’s players excel for their national teams has altered perceptions.
Instead of asking how many replacements Liverpool need, supporters are beginning to ask a different question.
What if the players are already good enough?
What if they simply needed a manager capable of unlocking their full potential?
That possibility is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.

A New Beginning
It would be unfair to expect Andoni Iraola to transform Liverpool overnight.
He still has enormous challenges ahead.
But the World Cup has offered an encouraging reminder.
Liverpool already possess an abundance of talent.
If Iraola can recreate the freedom, confidence and intensity these players are showing for their countries, he may discover that Liverpool’s biggest solution has been sitting inside the squad all along.
And that should excite every Liverpool supporter ahead of the new season.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Cody Gakpo delivered the kind of performance Liverpool supporters have been waiting to see.
After a disappointing opening game for the Netherlands, the Liverpool forward responded in spectacular fashion, scoring twice and providing an assist as Ronald Koeman’s side swept Sweden aside 5-1 to move to the top of World Cup Group F.
For Liverpool fans, it was more than just an excellent international performance.
It was a reminder of the player Gakpo is capable of becoming.

The Gakpo Liverpool Have Been Waiting For
Gakpo looked full of confidence from the moment the second half began.
His movement was sharp.
His finishing was clinical.
And, perhaps most importantly, he played with freedom.
His two goals showcased the composure that made him one of Europe’s most sought-after attackers before arriving at Anfield, while his assist highlighted the intelligence and creativity that have sometimes been missing from his game at club level.
Rather than drifting into predictable patterns, Gakpo attacked with purpose and looked dangerous every time he received the ball.

Freedom Makes the Difference
One criticism of Gakpo during Liverpool’s difficult title defence was that his game often became predictable.
Too frequently he would cut inside onto his stronger foot, allowing defenders to anticipate his next move.
Against Sweden, however, there was far greater variety.
He stretched the play, made intelligent runs behind the defence and combined effectively with his teammates.
The result was arguably his best performance of the tournament so far.

Another Boost for Andoni Iraola
Liverpool’s new head coach, Andoni Iraola, will surely have taken note.
One of Iraola’s greatest strengths is giving attacking players the confidence to play instinctively rather than overthinking every decision.
His high-intensity system is designed to create space for forwards through aggressive pressing and quick transitions.
Watching Gakpo flourish for the Netherlands will only strengthen the belief that he could thrive under Liverpool’s new manager.

Confidence Can Change Everything
Football is often a game of confidence.
When players feel relaxed and trusted, performances can improve dramatically.
That appeared to be the case for Gakpo.
Rather than looking hesitant, he played with conviction throughout the second half, finishing both of his chances superbly and linking play intelligently in the final third.
It was the complete attacking display Liverpool supporters know he is capable of producing.

Liverpool Should Stay Patient
There has been speculation surrounding Gakpo’s future in recent weeks, with reports suggesting several European clubs are monitoring his situation.
Performances like this are a timely reminder of why Liverpool should think carefully before considering any offers.
At 27 years old, Gakpo is entering the prime years of his career.
His quality has never been in doubt.
The challenge has simply been finding the right system to unlock it consistently.

A Huge Season Ahead
With Andoni Iraola now in charge, Gakpo effectively has a fresh start.
The Dutch international has shown at this World Cup exactly what he can produce when playing with confidence, freedom and clarity.
If Liverpool can recreate those conditions at club level, supporters may finally see the version of Cody Gakpo they have been waiting for since he arrived at Anfield.
And after his outstanding display against Sweden, there is every reason to believe that player is still very much there.

Jamie (The Kopite View)