Iraola Remains Optimistic Despite Liverpool's Winless Start

Islamabad, Pakistan Aug 30, 2026 ALN: Andoni Iraola is still waiting for his first Premier League victory as Liverpool boss, but he saw enough in Saturday’s 2-2 draw with Nottingham Forest to reinforce his belief that the foundations of his new-look side are beginning to take shape.

The former Bournemouth manager was hired this summer to revive a team bruised by last season’s failed title defence, when Liverpool crashed from champions in 2025 to fifth place despite spending a Premier League record £446 million on new players. This significant financial investment was aimed at rejuvenating a squad that had lost its competitive edge and was struggling to keep pace with rivals. The club's management believed that a fresh approach was necessary to restore Liverpool's status as a dominant force in football.

His remit is to restore Liverpool to the summit of football and reintroduce the intensity that once made Anfield one of Europe’s most daunting venues. The club has a storied history, with a legacy of success that includes numerous league titles and European triumphs. Fans expect a return to glory, and Iraola’s task is to bridge the gap between past achievements and the current challenges the team faces.

Iraola’s answer is not caution. The Spaniard wants his side to play on the front foot, attack at pace and press relentlessly, a style that should resonate with supporters who spent years watching Juergen Klopp’s “heavy-metal football” before the more measured approach of Arne Slot’s two-year reign. Klopp’s tenure was marked by high-energy performances and a commitment to attacking play, which endeared him to the fanbase. Iraola aims to recapture that spirit, but he faces the challenge of implementing his vision while also addressing the team's defensive vulnerabilities.

The transition, however, remains a work in progress. Forest’s opening goal from Dan Ndoye stemmed from a direct counterattack, while long periods of a sluggish first half left Iraola frustrated. The defensive lapses that led to conceding early goals are a concern, as they highlight the need for better organization and communication among the players. Iraola's tactics require a cohesive understanding of pressing and positioning, which may take time to develop fully.

“I think we improved a lot in the second half. We were much more intense, much quicker on the ball, with more sense of urgency,” he said. “But it’s not enough to win the game, and I think we have to blame the first half that we had.” This acknowledgment of the need for improvement reflects Iraola's understanding of the demands of the Premier League, where consistency is crucial for success.

The improvement after the break was unmistakable. Alexander Isak levelled shortly after the hour mark, before newcomer Victor Munoz struck the late equaliser. The resilience shown by the team to come back from behind is a positive sign, indicating that the players are willing to fight for results even when faced with adversity. Munoz, in particular, has quickly made an impact since joining the squad, showcasing his ability to contribute both offensively and defensively.

“I think Victor has been very good both games,” Iraola said. “Everything hasn’t been perfect, but he’s continued trying all the time and he’s gone again and again and again. I like this a lot from the wingers. He has always been a threat, and also defensively has helped us a lot.” The praise for Munoz highlights the importance of having players who can adapt to different roles and contribute to the team's overall strategy.

SLOW STARTERS

The bigger concern for Iraola is Liverpool’s tendency to start slowly, a habit they have carried over from last season. Slow starts can be detrimental in high-stakes matches, where early momentum is often key to dictating the flow of the game. While he was encouraged by the character shown to recover from a losing position for a second consecutive match, he believes the underlying issue lies in their work without the ball.

“In the first half we were being passive without the ball, leaving a lot of distance and becoming a little bit comfortable,” he said. “When we improved the intensity, we won more duels and started attacking quicker and attacking better. This lack of intensity without the ball has hurt us.” This analysis points to the need for a more proactive approach, particularly in the opening stages of matches, to prevent opponents from gaining confidence and taking control.

There is little panic around Anfield, despite the winless start. Iraola has said the tactical shift would take time, and his insistence on playing at a higher tempo was never likely to be mastered overnight. The club's management and supporters appear willing to give Iraola time to implement his strategies, recognizing that significant changes often require patience and perseverance.

Reinforcements are also on the way. Liverpool have finalised an agreement to sign France winger Bradley Barcola from Paris St Germain, according to British media reports, with the 23-year-old’s pace and direct running seen as an ideal fit for Iraola’s high-octane system. Barcola's arrival could provide the team with additional attacking options and further enhance the squad's depth, which is crucial for competing on multiple fronts throughout the season.

For now, Liverpool remain caught between promise and progress. The entertainment value is increasing, but the victories have yet to arrive. The team’s ability to create chances and entertain fans is evident, but translating that into tangible results will be essential for building confidence and momentum.

“It’s true that we’ve come back from two bad results where we were losing,” Iraola said. “But at the end what makes the difference are the wins and three points. I liked what we’ve done in the second half, we’ve been able to complete the comeback, but the point leaves you frustrated.” This sentiment encapsulates the dual nature of the current situation; while there are signs of improvement, the ultimate goal remains winning matches and climbing the league table.