The Kopite View

Liverpool’s decision to replace Arne Slot with Andoni Iraola was not simply a reaction to a disappointing run of results. According to Paul Joyce and Hamzah Khalique-Loonat, the club’s hierarchy had been considering the direction of the team and its future long before the change was officially announced.

Their report sheds more light on why Liverpool decided to move on from the man who had delivered the club’s 20th league title in 2024-25.

And while there was reportedly a feeling inside Anfield that Slot’s departure was harsh, the opportunity to appoint Iraola proved too tempting to ignore.

Liverpool wanted a different direction

At the end of last season, Liverpool’s decision-makers looked closely at the squad, the players they wanted to recruit during the summer and, importantly, the style of football they wanted the team to play.

Their conclusion was that Slot was no longer the best person to take the club forward.

That is a significant decision when you consider what the Dutchman achieved in his first season.

Winning the Premier League title in your debut campaign is an outstanding achievement, and Slot deserves enormous credit for bringing the trophy back to Anfield.

However, football moves quickly. Liverpool had encountered a series of unprecedented challenges, and the club ultimately decided that a different approach was needed.

I can understand why some people inside the club felt the decision was harsh. Slot had earned a great deal of respect, and his title-winning season should never be forgotten.

But the hierarchy clearly believed that standing still was not an option.

Why Iraola was the man Liverpool wanted

The report explains that Andoni Iraola represented an opportunity Liverpool felt they could not afford to miss.

Richard Hughes already knew the Spaniard from their time together at Bournemouth. Iraola was available after leaving the south coast club and, according to a source quoted in the report, was at the stage of his coaching career where he was ready to “climb the mountain”.

That phrase tells you a lot about the ambition behind the appointment.

Iraola had built a reputation for energetic, aggressive football at Bournemouth. His teams pressed intensely, played with pace and were prepared to take the game to their opponents.

Those qualities were exactly what Liverpool’s hierarchy wanted to bring back to Anfield.

It was not just about replacing one head coach with another. It was about changing the identity and direction of the team.

Was Slot treated unfairly?

This is where I think Liverpool supporters can have mixed feelings.

Slot delivered the Premier League title in 2024-25, and that achievement will always be part of the club’s history.

He also faced enormous challenges during his second season, and it would be unfair to pretend that everything was straightforward.

However, winning the league does not guarantee a manager unlimited time, particularly at a club with Liverpool’s ambitions.

I was never convinced that Slot was the right man to take the team forward after the direction of performances changed, so I can understand why the club decided to act.

The timing was important too. Liverpool wanted to make their decision before the next campaign rather than allow uncertainty to continue into another season.

Iraola has a huge opportunity at Anfield

Iraola now has the responsibility of making the hierarchy’s decision look like the right one.

He has inherited a talented squad, but expectations at Liverpool are completely different from those at Bournemouth.

Supporters want to see intensity, commitment, attacking football and a team that opponents genuinely fear playing against at Anfield.

There will inevitably be comparisons with Jürgen Klopp, but Iraola needs to build his own identity rather than spend his time trying to copy somebody else’s success.

For me, the most important thing is that Liverpool look like Liverpool again.

The decision to move on from Slot was a major one, particularly after he had delivered the title. But the club clearly believed Iraola was the right opportunity at the right time.

Now the Spaniard has to prove that belief was justified.

Jamie – (The Kopite View)

Liverpool could be handed an opportunity to secure Ronald Araujo’s future at Anfield earlier than expected, with Barcelona reportedly making the first move over a potential January transfer.

According to Graeme Bailey at TEAMtalk, Barcelona have approached Liverpool about turning the Uruguayan defender’s loan move into a permanent deal when the transfer window opens.

The Spanish giants are keen to bring Araujo’s departure forward so they can raise funds for their own defensive recruitment.

And I think Liverpool should be taking this opportunity very seriously.

Barcelona want to cash in on Araujo

Araujo arrived at Anfield from Barcelona in the summer on a season-long loan, with an option to make the move permanent for €55 million – approximately £47 million.

However, Barcelona are now looking to accelerate that arrangement, with initial discussions between the clubs reportedly already taking place.

TEAMtalk understands that Liverpool are delighted with what the 27-year-old has brought to the squad, while Araujo himself is open to making his move permanent.

Barcelona’s need to raise funds could give Liverpool an opportunity to negotiate a different fee.

The report suggests Liverpool would ideally like to agree a figure in the region of £40 million to £45 million rather than pay the full amount originally agreed.

A significant discount is not guaranteed, but there is certainly room for discussions.

Araujo has become an important player for Iraola

When Araujo first arrived, I expected him to provide cover at centre-back. Instead, he has made the right-back position his own during a difficult period for Liverpool.

His physical presence, aggression, commitment and ability to win individual battles have made him a valuable addition.

He has also shown that he can step into central defence when required, giving Andoni Iraola another option across the back four.

What I particularly like is his attitude. He gets stuck in, competes for everything and looks like a player who understands what it means to represent Liverpool.

That sort of mentality is exactly what supporters want to see.

Liverpool should be looking to get this deal done

I have previously said that I would love to see Araujo remain at Anfield beyond his loan spell, and this latest development could bring that possibility much closer.

At 27, he still has plenty of football ahead of him. He also brings experience at the highest level and the versatility to cover two important defensive positions.

Liverpool have had enough problems with injuries and defensive uncertainty in recent seasons. Having someone of Araujo’s quality available permanently would provide some much-needed stability.

The important thing is getting the financial side right. I would not want Liverpool paying over the odds, but if Barcelona are prepared to negotiate somewhere around £40 million to £45 million, I think it is a deal worth pursuing.

My verdict: Make Ronald Araujo a permanent Red

This is one transfer story I would be very happy to see develop.

Barcelona may have their own reasons for wanting to sell in January, but Liverpool should concentrate on what Araujo could bring to the club over the next few seasons.

He has settled quickly, earned the supporters’ appreciation and given Iraola another reliable defensive option.

There is still a long way to go before anything is agreed, and an approach is not the same as a completed transfer.

But if the opportunity is there to turn this successful loan into a permanent Anfield stay, I would be pushing to get it done.

Jamie – (The Kopite View)

Liverpool could receive a welcome double boost ahead of Sunday’s huge Premier League clash against Arsenal, with Dominik Szoboszlai and Victor Munoz both in contention to return.

Andoni Iraola has confirmed that neither player has been ruled out, although he stopped short of guaranteeing their involvement.

Speaking at his press conference on Friday, the Liverpool head coach said:

“I think they have a chance. They have a chance. But I don’t know for sure if they will be involved or not. We still have two days.”

That is certainly encouraging news for Liverpool supporters, particularly with Arsenal arriving at Anfield for a massive test of Iraola’s side.

Szoboszlai’s return would be a huge boost

Szoboszlai’s absence has been frustrating, especially after he was forced off just 31 minutes into his return against Brentford.

The Hungarian midfielder has missed Liverpool’s recent matches, and his energy, intensity and ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch have been missed.

He also has a habit of producing something special against Arsenal, having scored a stunning free-kick in the corresponding fixture last season.

I wouldn’t want Liverpool taking unnecessary risks with him, though. We have already seen what can happen when a player is brought back too quickly, and there is little point risking another setback.

If he is fit enough to feature, even from the bench, his presence could make a real difference.

Munoz could also provide another option

Victor Munoz has also been missing after picking up a knee problem against Brentford.

His possible return would give Iraola another option as Liverpool prepare for one of their toughest games of the season.

With the schedule becoming increasingly demanding, having more players available is going to be important. Liverpool need competition for places, fresh legs and options from the bench.

Liverpool need everyone available against Arsenal

Arsenal are the reigning Premier League champions and currently sit at the top of the table. Liverpool will need to be at their very best if they are to take all three points at Anfield.

The Reds have won five consecutive matches in all competitions, including their penalty shootout victory over Chelsea in midweek, and confidence is beginning to return.

But this is a different kind of challenge.

I would love to see both Szoboszlai and Munoz back in the squad, but the priority has to be making sure they are fully fit rather than rushing them into such an important fixture.

Iraola has given Liverpool supporters some positive news. Now we just have to wait and see whether the pair can get through the final preparations and make the matchday squad.

Jamie – (The Kopite View)

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Liverpool supporters have another reason to keep a close eye on Sunday’s Premier League clash with Arsenal, with Andy Madley appointed as the man in the middle at Anfield.

It’s one of the biggest fixtures of the weekend, with plenty at stake for both clubs. But before a ball has even been kicked, the referee appointment has already caught my attention.

I’ll be honest: I’m fed up with the standard of Premier League refereeing, and I don’t always feel Liverpool get the rub of the green when it comes to important decisions.

That doesn’t mean I’m accusing Madley of being against Liverpool. But supporters have seen far too many questionable decisions over the years, and the last thing we need on Sunday is another afternoon dominated by the officials.

Andy Madley’s record with Liverpool

Interestingly, Liverpool’s historical record under Madley is actually pretty good.

According to figures reported by This Is Anfield, he has refereed 24 Liverpool matches, with the Reds winning 15, drawing six and losing just three.

He has also never sent off a Liverpool player.

So the statistics don’t suggest that Liverpool have struggled particularly badly with Madley in charge.

However, past results don’t guarantee anything when it comes to the next match. What matters is whether the officials get the big decisions right when the pressure is on.

Stuart Attwell on VAR adds another talking point

Madley won’t be working alone.

Stuart Attwell has been appointed as the Video Assistant Referee, with James Bell assisting him at Stockley Park.

That means Liverpool supporters will be hoping for consistency both on the pitch and in the VAR room.

We have all seen how quickly a match can be changed by a penalty decision, a red card or a controversial offside call.

There is no excuse for getting straightforward decisions wrong when the technology is available.

VAR should be there to correct clear and obvious errors, not create even more confusion.

Liverpool cannot afford to get distracted

Sunday’s meeting with Arsenal is massive for Andoni Iraola.

Liverpool need a strong performance against one of their biggest rivals, and the players must concentrate on what happens between the two penalty areas.

I want to see Liverpool play with aggression, intensity and confidence. Arsenal are a quality side, but Anfield should be a difficult place for them to visit.

The last thing Iraola needs is his players becoming distracted by decisions or allowing frustration to affect their performance.

At the same time, the officials have a responsibility to manage the game properly and apply the rules consistently to both teams.

My verdict: Just give Liverpool a fair game!

I’m not asking for decisions to go Liverpool’s way simply because I’m a supporter.

All I want is consistency.

If a Liverpool player commits a foul, give it. If an Arsenal player deserves a booking, show it. If there is a clear penalty or red-card offence, don’t hesitate to make the correct decision.

It really shouldn’t be too much to ask.

Andy Madley has a big responsibility on Sunday, and I hope he has a quiet afternoon for all the right reasons.

Liverpool versus Arsenal should be decided by the football, not by another refereeing controversy. Just give both teams a fair chance and let the best side win.

Jamie – (The Kopite View)

Federico Chiesa’s Liverpool career could be heading towards an unhappy ending, with Inter Milan reportedly making contact over a possible January transfer.

The Italian winger arrived at Anfield with plenty of excitement and the hope that he could rediscover his best form under a new challenge. Unfortunately, things haven’t worked out as either the player or Liverpool would have wanted.

Now, a return to Serie A could be on the cards, with Inter reportedly holding informal discussions with Liverpool about bringing Chiesa back to Italy.

And if the reports are accurate, the Reds could be prepared to accept around €15 million.

Inter Milan leading the race for Chiesa?

According to reports from Fussball News and Calciomercato, Inter are exploring the possibility of signing Chiesa during the January transfer window.

They aren’t the only Italian club keeping an eye on his situation, with AC Milan, Roma, Atalanta and Lazio also reportedly monitoring developments.

However, Inter appear to have taken the first steps by holding informal talks with Liverpool.

There is no agreement at this stage, and plenty could still happen before January, but the interest is certainly worth watching.

A fee of around €15m would allow Liverpool to recover some money while finally moving on from a transfer that hasn’t delivered the expected return.

Chiesa has never really got going at Anfield

I still remember the excitement when Liverpool signed Chiesa from Juventus in 2024.

He was an exciting Italian international who had played a major role in Italy’s Euro 2020 triumph. His pace, direct running and ability to beat defenders looked like qualities that could give Liverpool something different in attack.

Unfortunately, injuries and competition for places have made it difficult for him to establish himself.

He has never managed to become a regular starter, and his opportunities have become increasingly limited.

That is particularly disappointing because I don’t think there was ever any doubt about his ability when fully fit.

But football moves quickly, and Liverpool now have several attacking options competing for places.

With players such as Rio Ngumoha, Bradley Barcola, Cody Gakpo and Victor Munoz providing competition, Chiesa faces a difficult battle to force his way into Iraola’s plans.

Would €15m be enough?

Liverpool won’t want to simply give Chiesa away, but they also have to consider the bigger picture.

If a club is prepared to pay around €15m, it could be a sensible opportunity to bring his time at Anfield to an end.

There is little point keeping a player who isn’t getting regular football, particularly when he could be given a fresh start elsewhere.

A return to Italy might be exactly what Chiesa needs. He knows Serie A, understands the football and could have a better opportunity to rebuild his career.

At 29, he still has time to make an impact, but he needs to be playing regularly.

My verdict: Liverpool should accept a sensible offer

I don’t take any pleasure in seeing a Liverpool player struggle to make an impact, and I would have liked Chiesa to succeed at Anfield.

Unfortunately, it hasn’t happened.

If Inter Milan or another Italian club comes forward with an offer close to €15m, I think Liverpool should seriously consider accepting it.

Iraola needs players who can contribute consistently, and the club must continue building an attacking squad that suits his plans.

Chiesa deserves the opportunity to play regular football again, while Liverpool need to make the most of their squad places and resources.

Sometimes a transfer simply doesn’t work out. Chiesa’s move to Anfield looks increasingly like one of those cases, and January could finally provide the right outcome for everyone involved.

Jamie – (The Kopite View)

Arsenal arrive at Anfield this weekend knowing they are just one match away from an unwanted piece of club history.

The Gunners have failed to win any of their last 13 Premier League visits to Liverpool, drawing five and losing eight. Andoni Iraola’s side now have the opportunity to extend that miserable record when the two teams meet on Sunday.

According to Opta Analyst, Arsenal have never gone 14 consecutive league matches at Anfield without a victory.

That is quite some statistic, and it gives this weekend’s meeting another fascinating storyline.

Arsenal haven’t won at Anfield in the Premier League since 2012

You have to go back to September 2012 for Arsenal’s last Premier League victory at Anfield, when they secured a 2-0 win.

Since then, Liverpool have made life extremely difficult for the Gunners on Merseyside.

Five draws and eight defeats tell their own story. It doesn’t matter how good Arsenal have been during certain periods or how much quality they have had in their squad, Anfield has repeatedly proved a difficult place for them to get a result.

Even more interestingly, this isn’t the first time Arsenal have endured such a miserable run.

They also went 13 league visits without winning at Anfield between 1975-76 and 1987-88. That sequence was eventually ended by the famous 2-0 victory in 1989, when Michael Thomas scored that unforgettable goal to help Arsenal snatch the league title from Liverpool on the final day.

Liverpool supporters certainly won’t need reminding of that afternoon!

Iraola has the opportunity to make another statement

There is plenty riding on Sunday’s match for Liverpool.

Arsenal are the reigning Premier League champions and remain one of the strongest teams in the country. They have the quality to punish any defensive mistakes, and Liverpool will need to be at their best.

However, Iraola’s side have started to show signs of improvement.

The recent victories over Brentford and Brighton, followed by the penalty shootout success against Chelsea in the Carabao Cup, have given Liverpool some momentum.

A victory over Arsenal would be another huge statement and could further strengthen the belief that Iraola is beginning to build something at Anfield.

But Liverpool cannot simply rely on history to get the job done.

They need to bring the intensity, aggression and quality that supporters expect when Arsenal come to town.

Anfield needs to play its part

These are the games that make Anfield special.

There is nothing better than seeing Liverpool take on one of their biggest rivals in front of a full house, with the supporters making life as uncomfortable as possible for the opposition.

Arsenal will know exactly what awaits them.

They have the opportunity to end their long wait for a league victory at Anfield, but Liverpool have every reason to make sure that record remains intact.

I would love to see the Reds get after Arsenal from the first whistle rather than allowing them to settle into their passing game.

The visitors have enough quality to hurt Liverpool if they are given too much time and space.

My verdict: Keep Arsenal’s Anfield hoodoo alive!

Statistics don’t win football matches, and Liverpool will have to earn the right to take all three points.

But there is no denying that Arsenal have a psychological hurdle to overcome.

Thirteen Premier League visits without a victory is a remarkable record, and the thought of making it 14 would be another welcome milestone for Liverpool supporters.

I want to see Iraola’s players approach this game with confidence, belief and the determination to show Arsenal exactly how difficult Anfield can be.

Arsenal are chasing history, but Liverpool should have only one objective: make sure they leave Anfield empty-handed and that their miserable record continues.

Jamie – (The Kopite View)

Jamie Carragher has never been afraid to speak his mind about Liverpool, and his latest comments on Andoni Iraola will probably strike a chord with plenty of supporters.

The former Liverpool defender admits he was initially sceptical about the appointment, but is now moving towards cautious optimism after seeing Iraola’s ideas begin to take shape at Anfield.

I have to say, I understand where Carragher was coming from.

When Liverpool appointed Iraola, there were obvious questions about whether he had the experience required to manage a club of this size. He had done an excellent job at Bournemouth, but taking charge of Liverpool is an entirely different challenge.

He had never won a major trophy as a manager and had no previous experience of managing in European competition.

Those were legitimate concerns, not criticism for the sake of it.

Why Carragher had his doubts about Iraola

Liverpool are not a club where a manager is given unlimited time to learn on the job.

The expectation is to compete for trophies, challenge at the top of the Premier League and make an impact in Europe. That is the pressure that comes with managing one of the biggest clubs in world football.

Carragher’s concern was whether Iraola had the credentials to make that step up.

There is a massive difference between doing a brilliant job at Bournemouth and managing Liverpool, where every decision is scrutinised and every disappointing result becomes a major talking point.

However, what matters now is what Iraola is doing with the opportunity.

Iraola is beginning to show his vision

One thing I have liked about Iraola is that he hasn’t been afraid to make difficult decisions.

He has shown a willingness to leave established players out when their performances haven’t been good enough, while giving younger players opportunities to make an impression.

That is important.

Reputation should never guarantee somebody a place in the Liverpool starting eleven. If a player isn’t performing, somebody else should get the opportunity.

There have been encouraging signs in the way Liverpool are playing, too. The intensity, attacking intent and willingness to fight their way back into matches are qualities that supporters want to see.

The comeback against Villarreal was a perfect example. Liverpool found themselves in serious trouble but refused to give up, eventually turning the game around in a dramatic 4-3 victory.

That sort of character is something the supporters want to see more regularly.

Liverpool supporters are starting to believe again

I don’t think Carragher is alone in changing his opinion.

There were plenty of Liverpool supporters who questioned the appointment, myself included, because of the lack of trophies and European experience.

But managers have to be judged on what they deliver, not simply what they have won previously.

Iraola earned his opportunity through the work he did at Bournemouth. Now he has the chance to prove he can take those ideas to a much bigger stage.

There is still plenty to improve, and I certainly wouldn’t suggest Liverpool are suddenly ready to dominate English football again.

The defensive organisation needs to become more consistent, the midfield still needs the right balance and the squad has weaknesses that cannot be ignored.

But there is a growing feeling that something is beginning to take shape.

Carragher is right to remain cautious

I actually agree with Carragher’s use of the words ‘cautious optimism’.

Liverpool have had encouraging results and there are signs of progress, but we need to see that level maintained over a much longer period.

Winning a few matches is one thing. Handling the pressure of competing in the Premier League, Champions League and domestic cups is another.

Iraola will face difficult periods, injuries and criticism. That is inevitable at Anfield.

The real test will be how he responds when things aren’t going his way.

But I would much rather see Liverpool building towards an identifiable style of football than constantly changing direction without a clear plan.

My verdict: Give Iraola the time to build something

I was concerned when Liverpool appointed Iraola, and I don’t think supporters should be criticised for having those doubts.

However, I’m beginning to see why the club wanted him.

He has brought energy, a willingness to make tough decisions and an attacking approach that can get the Anfield crowd off their seats.

Carragher’s change in opinion is significant because he has been one of the more sceptical voices since the appointment.

Nobody is claiming Iraola has proved everything yet. He hasn’t.

But if he continues to get the best out of this squad, improves the balance of the team and keeps Liverpool competing for trophies, those early doubts will become a distant memory.

For now, I’m happy to be cautiously optimistic. Iraola has earned the opportunity to show Liverpool supporters what he can build at Anfield.

Jamie – (The Kopite View)

Liverpool supporters have taken to Ronald Araujo in a big way, and it is becoming increasingly difficult to imagine the Uruguayan defender returning to Barcelona at the end of his loan spell.

What initially looked like an interesting temporary signing has turned into something much more significant for Andoni Iraola’s side.

Araujo has brought aggression, physicality, leadership and a winning mentality to Liverpool’s defence. He has also shown that he can do an excellent job at right-back, despite naturally being a centre-back.

Now, according to Liverpool journalist Lewis Steele, the club are open to making his move permanent if his impressive form continues.

And quite honestly, why wouldn’t they be?

Liverpool have every reason to keep Araujo

Steele has made an interesting point about the purchase option included in Araujo’s loan agreement.

Liverpool wouldn’t have negotiated that option if there wasn’t a possibility of making the move permanent.

The original agreement gives the Reds the opportunity to sign him for a reported £47 million, but Steele also suggests that Liverpool could negotiate a lower fee with Barcelona.

That could make a significant difference when the club come to make their decision.

There is no need to rush into anything, but if Araujo continues performing at this level, Liverpool would surely have to give serious consideration to keeping him at Anfield.

Should his age be a concern?

One argument being raised is that Liverpool don’t normally spend big money on players approaching their late twenties.

Araujo turns 28 in March, and that might not fit the usual transfer strategy of recruiting younger players with years of potential resale value.

But I don’t think age should automatically rule him out.

Just look at Virgil van Dijk. The Liverpool captain is still performing at the highest level at 35, demonstrating that the right player can remain an important part of a successful team well beyond the age of 30.

I’m not suggesting Araujo will necessarily have the same longevity, but Liverpool need to look at what he can offer the team rather than simply focusing on his date of birth.

There is a difference between signing an ageing player whose best years are behind him and signing someone who is approaching his peak and already proving his worth.

Araujo belongs in the latter conversation.

He gives Iraola something Liverpool have been missing

What I particularly like about Araujo is his attitude.

He doesn’t appear to be frightened of a physical battle, he attacks the ball aggressively and he gives Liverpool an imposing presence in both penalty areas.

His performances at right-back have been especially encouraging. He has adapted to a position that isn’t necessarily his natural role and has given Iraola another option without sacrificing the defensive strength of the team.

Liverpool have needed more leadership and authority at the back, and Araujo has brought both.

He also offers valuable versatility. He can play centrally or at right-back, which could be extremely important over a long season when injuries and suspensions inevitably become an issue.

Those qualities shouldn’t be underestimated.

Liverpool must get the deal right

The financial side is obviously important.

A reported £47m purchase option is a substantial investment, and Liverpool should make sure they are getting the right value for their money.

However, if Steele is correct that the club could negotiate the fee down with Barcelona, that would make a permanent transfer even more attractive.

There is still a long way to go before anything is agreed, and Araujo needs to maintain his performances throughout the campaign.

But the early signs are extremely encouraging.

My verdict: Make Araujo a Liverpool player permanently

I’m already a big fan of what Araujo has brought to this Liverpool side.

He has the mentality, physical presence and experience that I want to see in a Liverpool defender. More importantly, he looks like someone who genuinely wants to be at Anfield and is enjoying playing for the club.

Liverpool shouldn’t allow a transfer strategy based purely on age to get in the way of signing the right player.

If he continues in this form, I’d be delighted to see the club make his loan move permanent.

And if they can negotiate a better fee with Barcelona, even better.

Liverpool have found a defender who looks right at home at Anfield. I’d rather see them keep him than start searching for someone else to do the same job.

Jamie – (The Kopite View)

Rio Ngumoha gave Liverpool supporters another glimpse of his enormous potential against Villarreal, but one decision from Andoni Iraola has left me wondering why the youngster was moved back to the left wing afterwards.

The teenager was outstanding on the right against the Spanish side. He caused problems, took defenders on, delivered dangerous balls into the box and provided two assists in Liverpool’s thrilling 4-3 Champions League comeback.

So why change something that was working so well?

Ngumoha showed he can be just as dangerous on the right

There was plenty to admire about Ngumoha’s performance against Villarreal.

His cross for Ronald Araújo’s equaliser was excellent, but his contribution to Alexis Mac Allister’s second goal was even better. His pace, close control and willingness to attack defenders made him a nightmare for Villarreal to contain.

What impressed me most was how comfortable he looked in a position that he has been learning to play.

Ngumoha has traditionally been a left winger, cutting inside and taking defenders on with his right foot. However, he is beginning to show that he can be equally effective on the opposite flank.

At just 18, having that versatility is a massive advantage.

What was Iraola thinking?

Iraola has previously made it clear that he wants his wide players to become comfortable operating on both sides.

Liverpool’s attacking options have also created something of a selection headache, with several players naturally preferring the left wing. Being able to switch flanks gives the manager more options when selecting his forward line.

There is also a tactical argument for using Ngumoha on the left. It is his natural position, where he can receive the ball, cut inside and attack the penalty area in the way that first made him such an exciting prospect.

Perhaps Iraola wanted to get other players involved on the right, or felt the next opponent presented a different tactical challenge.

We shouldn’t pretend to know his exact thinking, but moving Ngumoha back to the left doesn’t necessarily mean Iraola has changed his opinion of what he can offer on the right.

Liverpool need to make the most of this talent

My concern is that Liverpool have finally seen what Ngumoha can produce from the right, and I would like to see more of it.

He shouldn’t be restricted to one position simply because that is where he has played most of his football.

In fact, I think having the ability to switch wings during matches could make him even harder for defenders to deal with. Imagine opposition full-backs having to cope with him changing sides and attacking them from different angles.

There is also a bigger question about Liverpool’s attacking balance. Rather than always trying to fit players into their preferred positions, Iraola needs to find the combination that gives the team the greatest threat.

Ngumoha has earned the opportunity to be part of that solution.

Iraola must keep giving him opportunities

I am not suggesting that Ngumoha should automatically start every game or that he should be permanently stationed on the right.

He is still young, and there will be difficult afternoons along the way. Iraola is right to manage his development and encourage him to improve different aspects of his game.

But after watching him take Villarreal apart from the right wing, I would certainly like to see him given another opportunity there.

Liverpool have a special young talent on their hands. The challenge now is making sure his development continues while giving him enough opportunities to show what he can do.

My verdict: I wouldn’t move Ngumoha away from the right just because the left is his natural position. Villarreal showed that he can be devastating on either flank, and Liverpool should take full advantage of that.

Jamie – (The Kopite View)

Liverpool could have a major contract headache on their hands, with Real Madrid reportedly identifying Alexis Mac Allister as a leading transfer target.

According to Sky Sport Germany, the Spanish giants have the Argentine midfielder high on their shortlist, with José Mourinho said to be particularly keen on bringing him to the Bernabéu.

Mac Allister is now 27 and remains an important player for Liverpool, but his contract situation is beginning to attract attention. His current deal runs until 2028, and there are reportedly no concrete plans to offer him an early extension.

For Liverpool supporters, that will raise an obvious question: can the club really afford to let one of its key midfielders drift towards the final years of his contract without resolving his future?

Why Does Mourinho Want Mac Allister?

Mourinho is reportedly impressed by Mac Allister’s physicality, his ability to win duels and his qualities in the middle of the pitch.

The World Cup winner is not simply a player who can keep possession ticking over. He can compete in midfield, read the game and help his team regain control when opponents begin to take charge.

Those qualities could appeal to Real Madrid as they look to strengthen their options in the centre of the pitch.

Mac Allister also has plenty of experience at the highest level, having won the World Cup with Argentina and the Premier League with Liverpool.

He is entering what should be some of the prime years of his career, making it understandable that a club of Real Madrid’s stature would be interested.

However, reported interest is one thing. Turning that interest into a formal offer and convincing Liverpool to sell are two very different challenges.

Liverpool’s Contract Situation Is Becoming a Concern

The most interesting part of this story is not necessarily Real Madrid’s interest. It is Mac Allister’s contract.

The midfielder is tied to Liverpool until 2028, but Sky Sport Germany reports that there are currently no concrete plans for an early extension.

That follows Mac Allister’s own comments in September, when he admitted he was disappointed not to have been offered a new deal. He also revealed that he had options to leave during the summer but chose to remain at Anfield because he believes Liverpool is the right club for him.

That is an important detail.

Mac Allister has publicly expressed his commitment to Liverpool, but he has also made it clear that the lack of a new contract has hurt him.

Liverpool have handed new deals to other midfielders, including Ryan Gravenberch and Dominik Szoboszlai, so it is understandable that supporters are asking why Mac Allister’s situation has not been resolved.

The club must decide what it wants to do. If he remains part of Andoni Iraola’s long-term plans, surely Liverpool should be looking to protect his future rather than allow uncertainty to continue.

Would Liverpool Really Sell Him to Real Madrid?

I would be very reluctant to let Mac Allister leave.

Liverpool already have questions to answer about the balance of their midfield, and losing a player with his experience and technical quality would create another problem for Iraola.

He can influence games with his passing, contribute defensively and provide valuable experience in a team that still needs to find consistency.

Of course, no player is bigger than Liverpool, and the club must consider the financial side of every contract decision. But allowing a key midfielder’s future to become a prolonged talking point is not ideal.

If Real Madrid make their interest concrete, Liverpool need to know where they stand.

Either Mac Allister is a player they want to build around, in which case they should work towards an agreement, or they need to consider their options before his contract situation becomes more difficult.

What they cannot afford to do is leave themselves scrambling for a replacement at the last minute.

My Verdict: Liverpool Need to Act

For me, this is a transfer story Liverpool supporters should keep an eye on.

There is no confirmed bid or agreement, and the reports should not be treated as proof that Mac Allister is about to leave Anfield. But the combination of Real Madrid’s reported interest and the uncertainty surrounding his contract makes this one worth watching.

I want Liverpool to keep their best players, and Mac Allister is still capable of playing a major role under Iraola.

The club also needs to get its midfield right. I have already argued that this is the biggest problem area in the team, and losing an experienced player without having a proper plan in place would make that challenge even harder.

Liverpool should be trying to secure Mac Allister’s future, not giving Real Madrid encouragement that a deal might be possible.

The Argentine has said he loves Liverpool and wants to give his best for the club. Now the club needs to decide whether it is prepared to show the same commitment to him.

If Mourinho really wants Mac Allister at Real Madrid, Liverpool must make sure they are not caught unprepared.

Jamie – (The Kopite View)