Iraola highlights squad depth deficit after Monaco setback
Liverpool’s inability to maintain performance standards after substitutions raises questions ahead of the Premier League campaign, despite strong showings from key signings.
Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has identified squad depth as a critical concern following a pre-season defeat to Monaco, where the side surrendered a two-goal lead. This marks the second consecutive friendly in which Liverpool has lost a two-goal advantage, echoing a similar outcome against Leeds United. Iraola attributed the decline in intensity to player fatigue following substitutions, noting that the current roster lacks the capacity to sustain the desired performance level for the duration of a match.
Speaking to LFC TV, Iraola acknowledged that while the team performed well in the opening 30 minutes, the drop-off in quality after changes were made was evident. He stated that the opposition deserved to turn the game around, emphasising that the club has significant work to do to ensure consistency across the full ninety minutes. The result leaves Liverpool with two wins and two losses in their pre-season schedule, with the final friendly scheduled against Como on 16 August at Anfield.
The defensive situation remains a focal point as the Premier League season begins in two weeks with a trip to Newcastle United. Virgil van Dijk returned from an extended post-World Cup break to partner 18-year-old Ifeanyi Ndukwe, but Ndukwe is expected to go on loan this season due to work permit issues. The match concluded with Luke Chambers and Wataru Endo occupying the centre-back positions, highlighting the immediate need for reinforcement in that area.
Liverpool is close to finalising a season-long loan for Ronald Araujo from Barcelona, which includes an option to buy for approximately £47.2 million. Araujo has completed his medical, offering potential stability to the back line. Meanwhile, defender Jeremy Jacquet, who joined from Rennes, remains sidelined with a minor knee problem. Although he has not yet participated in full training, the club is optimistic he will be available for the upcoming fixture against Como.
Despite the defeat, the performances of high-profile signings Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak provided a positive outlook. The pair, who cost a combined £225 million last summer, were instrumental in the attack. Isak scored the opening goal, while Wirtz was named the best player on the pitch. Isak described the team spirit as strong and expressed confidence that the group is working hard to prepare for the start of the top-flight campaign.
