Spanish Andoni Iraola, Liverpool's technical director, confirmed that his team is heading in the right direction during the preparation period for the new season, pointing out that Florian Wirtz will begin his journey with the team in the playmaker position behind the striker, and also revealed that the Reds are suffering from a severe shortage in the center-back position after Joe Gomez's injury.
Liverpool is preparing to conclude its preparatory tour in the United States with a match against Leeds United, after securing victories over Sunderland and Wrexham in the first two friendly matches.
Iraola spoke about his development as a coach compared to last season, saying in statements via Liverpool's official website: "I think I am much better than I was a year ago; I have gained additional experience in the Premier League, but the challenge now is different, as expectations are higher and the players' level is greater, and I must adapt tactically to these circumstances. I believe we are heading in the right direction."
Regarding Florian Wirtz, he explained: "We need the best version of him; we know very well what he can offer us, and I believe he fits our style of play. I see him primarily behind the striker, although he sometimes played on the left wing with the German national team. He possesses well-rounded abilities, and we will work on developing them. From the first days, I sensed that he is in an excellent mental state."
Liverpool's coach revealed the defensive crisis the team is facing after Joe Gomez's injury, saying: "At the moment, we are suffering from a severe shortage in the center-back position; we are still missing Virgil van Dijk, and we only have Mor Ndiaye and Ivi Ndokou, both of whom are 18 years old. Luke Chambers played in this position against Wrexham even though he is not a defender, but he delivered an outstanding performance."
He added: "We will continue working this way until the injured players return; Jeremy Jacquet has become ready, and we will also get Van Dijk back, but I am pleased with what the young defenders offered against Sunderland and Wrexham."
Regarding striker Alexander Isak, Iraola said: "I think he has reached a good level; he delivered an outstanding World Cup, and began training well. I hope he gets some minutes against Leeds, and after three or four weeks of intensive work, he will be a major addition to us this season."
The technical director also praised the young talents during the preparation period, confirming: "Many young players surprised me because I did not know them well before, but they delivered a very high level in the friendly matches. Now we must gradually integrate the returning players, especially those who participated in the World Cup, so we reach the best readiness before the start of the season."
