Liverpool’s first game at Anfield under Andoni Iraola ended in disappointment as Monaco came from two goals behind to win 3-2.
The result certainly wasn’t what Liverpool supporters wanted, but pre-season is about much more than the final score.
There were plenty of encouraging signs, particularly in the first half, but there were also some familiar problems that Iraola will need to address before Liverpool begin their competitive campaign.
Here are five things we learned from the defeat to Monaco.
1. Wirtz and Isak look like a real threat
This has to be the biggest positive.
Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak already look capable of forming a seriously dangerous partnership.
Wirtz was arguably Liverpool’s best player, constantly finding space between the lines and looking to make things happen.
Isak, meanwhile, showed exactly why Liverpool wanted him.
His movement, finishing and ability to link play give Liverpool another dimension in attack.
The pair were involved in both of Liverpool’s goals, and although they are still learning how to play together, the early signs are incredibly encouraging.
If Wirtz can consistently find Isak in dangerous positions, Liverpool could have a devastating attacking combination.
2. The Liverpool press is back
There were also encouraging signs of what Iraola wants Liverpool to become without the ball.
The intensity of the press was noticeable, particularly during the opening stages.
Liverpool looked willing to hunt in packs, force Monaco into mistakes and win the ball back quickly.
That aggressive approach should suit the players Iraola has at his disposal.
Szoboszlai’s energy, Wirtz’s intelligence and the pace of players such as Isak and Frimpong could make Liverpool extremely difficult to play against if they can maintain that intensity.
It won’t be perfect immediately, but there were enough glimpses to suggest that supporters could be watching a very energetic Liverpool side this season.
3. Liverpool are still vulnerable on the break and from set pieces
This is where the concerns begin.
Liverpool looked comfortable when they were controlling the game, but once Monaco found a way back into the contest, the Reds looked vulnerable.
The penalty conceded by Van Dijk gave Monaco a lifeline, while Liverpool were unable to deal with the pressure once the momentum changed.
The late winner was another reminder that defensive concentration has to improve.
Iraola will want his side to press aggressively, but that can leave space behind the first line of pressure.
Liverpool therefore have to find the right balance.
They cannot afford to be so aggressive that they leave themselves exposed whenever the opposition manages to beat the press.
Set pieces will also need attention.
These are exactly the sort of details that can turn a dominant performance into dropped points once the competitive season begins.
4. Squad depth remains a concern
Another thing that became apparent is that Liverpool still need greater depth in certain areas.
There is plenty of quality in the starting XI, but injuries and suspensions will inevitably test the squad over the course of a long season.
The second half demonstrated the difference between Liverpool’s strongest players and some of the less experienced options.
Youngsters such as Trey Nyoni, Rio Ngumoha and Victor Munoz can certainly contribute, but Liverpool cannot expect inexperienced players to carry the team when several established stars are unavailable.
Iraola will need competition for places throughout the squad if Liverpool are going to challenge on multiple fronts.
5. Iraola has plenty to think about
There are now just two weeks to go before the start of the Premier League season.
That means Iraola doesn’t have an enormous amount of time to work everything out.
There were plenty of positives against Monaco, but there were also warning signs.
He needs to improve Liverpool’s defensive organisation, work on defending transitions and set pieces, establish his preferred midfield combination and decide exactly how he wants his attacking players to operate.
The good news is that he has plenty of quality at his disposal.
The challenge now is turning that quality into a consistent team.
Plenty of work, but plenty of excitement
A 3-2 defeat isn’t how Liverpool supporters wanted Iraola’s first Anfield game to finish.
But it would be wrong to panic over a pre-season result.
There were genuine reasons for optimism.
Wirtz and Isak already look exciting.
The press showed real promise.
But there are also areas that need significant work.
Iraola now has two weeks to put the finishing touches to his team before the games start to matter.
And judging by what we saw against Monaco, there could be plenty of twists and turns ahead in this new Liverpool era.
Jamie (The Kopite View)
Leave a Reply