Andoni Iraola was brought to Liverpool to change the way the team plays. His high-intensity approach, aggressive pressing and desire to move the ball forward quickly have already given supporters reasons to be optimistic.
But there is one area of the team that still needs serious attention: the midfield.
Eddie Gibbs has raised an interesting point, suggesting that Iraola deserves the freedom to construct a midfield that reflects his own footballing principles, but that Ryan Gravenberch’s contract could make that considerably harder.
I can understand that argument.
Liverpool handed Gravenberch a new six-year contract in March, demonstrating just how much faith the club had in the Dutch midfielder. That is a significant commitment, and it inevitably makes any decision about his future more complicated.
However, a long contract should never prevent a club from making the right footballing decisions.
Iraola needs the midfield to suit his system
One of the biggest differences under Iraola is the way Liverpool approach the game.
He wants energy, intensity, aggressive pressing and midfielders capable of winning their battles before quickly turning defence into attack.
That requires a particular type of player.
Gravenberch has plenty of technical ability and can carry the ball beautifully, but questions remain about whether he is the right fit for every midfield role Iraola wants to use.
Iraola himself has spoken about Gravenberch’s versatility, describing him as a player capable of filling several positions. He has also made it clear that he sees the Dutchman primarily as a number eight.
That is important, because being a talented footballer and being the ideal player for a particular system are two different things.
Liverpool cannot afford to ignore that distinction.
The contract makes things more complicated
There is no suggestion that Gravenberch should automatically be shown the door. He is still only 24, has quality and has already demonstrated what he can contribute.
But Liverpool have to be honest about the bigger picture.
If Iraola believes he needs a different profile in the middle of the pitch, the club must be prepared to support him. It would be pointless appointing a manager for his footballing identity and then restricting his options because of previous recruitment decisions.
A long contract also gives Liverpool a degree of protection in the transfer market. It does not mean the midfielder is unsellable, although his wages, transfer value and the club’s financial commitment could make a departure more difficult.
The important thing is that footballing decisions come first.
Liverpool still need more steel in midfield
For me, the biggest concern has been the lack of a genuine defensive presence in the middle of the park.
I have said before that Liverpool have missed somebody with the qualities Fabinho brought to the team. Someone who can protect the defence, win tackles, dominate midfield battles and give the more creative players the freedom to attack.
That doesn’t necessarily mean Iraola wants a traditional number six. His system is different, and he may prefer a more mobile midfield built around pressing and collective responsibility.
But Liverpool still need balance.
You cannot expect the defenders to keep being exposed because the midfield is too easily bypassed. The best teams need players who can attack and defend, and know when to do each job.
Give Iraola the freedom to make his own decisions
Liverpool have made a big decision by bringing Iraola to Anfield. They clearly believe he is the right man to take the club forward, so they must now give him the tools to implement his ideas.
That includes allowing him to make difficult decisions about established players, even those who have recently signed new contracts.
Gravenberch may yet prove to be a major part of Iraola’s plans. His age, ability and versatility mean there is plenty of potential to work with.
But no player should be guaranteed a place simply because of the length of their contract.
My view is simple: Liverpool must build the midfield around what Iraola needs, not what previous decisions dictate.
If that means bringing in new players and making difficult calls on existing ones, then so be it.
The club appointed Iraola because they wanted a new direction. They cannot give him the responsibility without giving him the freedom to shape the team.
Jamie – (The Kopite View)
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