Iraola Is Bringing Liverpool Back to Life

When Liverpool appointed Andoni Iraola, the reaction was mixed. Some supporters were excited by the prospect of an intense, front-foot coach arriving at Anfield. Others questioned whether the former Bournemouth manager was ready for one of the biggest jobs in world football.

Twelve matches into his reign, it is far too early to declare the project a success. But it is certainly not too early to acknowledge that Liverpool are once again beginning to look and feel like Liverpool. That alone is a significant achievement.

The backdrop to Andoni Iraola’s arrival cannot be ignored. Arne Slot delivered what many managers only dream of by winning the Premier League title in his first season. Yet despite the silverware, a sizeable section of the fanbase never fully embraced his approach. The criticism was not necessarily about results. Rather, it was about identity.

Too often, Liverpool appeared passive. The relentless pressing, aggressive tackling and high-octane football that defined the Jurgen Klopp era felt diluted. Even during successful periods, many supporters struggled to connect emotionally with what they were watching.

Iraola has changed that almost immediately.

The numbers offer encouragement. In Iraola’s first 12 matches across all competitions, Liverpool have won eight, drawn three and lost just once, scoring 23 goals in the process. Their only defeat came against Manchester City, a game many supporters believe could have ended differently had Ryan Gravenberch not received a red card.

In Europe, Liverpool have been particularly impressive, winning all three of their Champions League matches to sit third in the competition’s standings. Domestically, they remain firmly in the mix near the top of the Premier League table, just one point behind third-placed Brighton.

More importantly, however, the football is passing the eye test.

Liverpool are pressing with intensity again. They hunt in packs. They are forcing mistakes high up the pitch and playing with an aggression that had been largely absent last season. The willingness to run, compete and engage physically is back. That does not mean everything is perfect.

Liverpool have conceded more goals than supporters would like, but context matters. This is a defence still learning about itself. Jeremy Jacquet has emerged as one of the stories of the season, while Ronald Araujo has admirably filled in as a makeshift right-back despite it not being his natural position.

Given those circumstances, some defensive inconsistency was inevitable.

What has surprised many is how quickly Jacquet has adapted. The young Frenchman has looked composed beyond his years and has arguably been Liverpool’s standout performer so far. His reading of the game, recovery pace and confidence in possession have given supporters every reason to be excited about his future.

Araujo deserves enormous credit too. Whether defending one-on-one, throwing himself into challenges or driving the team forward with his sheer commitment, he has quickly become a fan favourite. The Kop appreciates players who leave everything on the pitch, and the Uruguayan has done exactly that.

Further forward, several attacking players are beginning to flourish.

Alexander Isak’s goals have provided Liverpool with a cutting edge that makes the team dangerous even when performances are not at their best. The Swedish striker is showing exactly why the club invested heavily in him, combining intelligent movement with ruthless finishing.

Cody Gakpo has also enjoyed a strong start to the campaign. His versatility and work rate have added balance to the attack, while Rio Ngumoha continues to demonstrate why he is regarded as one of the club’s brightest young prospects. Despite his age, he plays with remarkable confidence and fearlessness.

Florian Wirtz is another player who appears to be finding his rhythm. After a relatively quiet start, the German playmaker is beginning to influence games more regularly, linking midfield and attack with the creativity Liverpool have sometimes lacked.

Meanwhile, Bradley Barcola is quietly growing into Premier League life. Adapting to English football is never straightforward, but recent performances suggest he is settling nicely. His assists for Isak’s last two goals highlighted both his intelligence and his growing understanding with Liverpool’s main striker.

Then there is Alexis Mac Allister.

The Argentine has looked rejuvenated under Iraola. The sharpness, authority and control that helped drive Liverpool to the title two seasons ago are becoming visible once again. When Mac Allister plays with confidence, Liverpool’s entire midfield functions more effectively.

Perhaps the most encouraging aspect of all is the atmosphere surrounding the club. The Spanish coach’s decision to embrace the city and immerse himself in Liverpool life has not gone unnoticed. Supporters appreciate managers who understand the club’s culture, and there is already a sense of connection between the Spaniard and the fanbase.

Nobody should get carried away. This team remains a work in progress. Consistency has not yet arrived and tougher tests undoubtedly lie ahead.

But football supporters recognise progress when they see it.

Liverpool may not yet be the finished article under Andoni Iraola, but they are playing with energy, courage and purpose again. For a club built on passion, intensity and connection, that might be the most important victory of all.

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