Andoni Iraola's dream Liverpool starting XI with three new signings
Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version from Liverpool.com or go back to LFC Live.
Iraola's high-intensity, attacking approach represents a marked departure from the possession-dominated style that Slot instilled at Liverpool.The Dutchman typically deployed a 4-3-3 formation, whereas Iraola favors a 4-2-3-1 system — or occasionally a 4-4-2 structure — with an emphasis on pressing high up the pitch and swiftly recovering possession, a hallmark of Jurgen Klopp's gegenpressing philosophy.With Liverpool anticipated to bring in several new faces this summer, Mirror Football examined the ideal starting XI that Iraola would look to field at the start of his Liverpool tenure next season.GoalkeeperUncertainty surrounding Alisson Becker's future has been rife, but should he remain at Anfield, he will undoubtedly retain his position as Liverpool's first-choice goalkeeper under Iraola. Reuniting with his former Bournemouth manager can only help the Hungary international as he aims to emulate Robertson.Virgil van Dijk will still play a key role(Image: AP Photo/Dave Shopland)Uncertainty remains over who will start at right-back in Liverpool's opening match of the season.
Gravenberch was granted greater freedom to push forward under Slot this season and, while he improved his goal and assist tally, his reduced defensive duties left Liverpool exposed at the back.The Dutchman may be called upon to reprise his controlling role from his debut season under Slot, with Szoboszlai continuing as the box-to-box dynamo in which he thrives. The 25-year-old openly expressed his dissatisfaction at being deployed at right-back on occasion this season, so a more settled central midfield berth would certainly suit him.Bigger things are expected from Alexander Isak next season(Image: Gareth Copley, Getty Images)AttackIraola's four-pronged attacking system functioned brilliantly at Bournemouth, with Liverpool supporters hoping he can replicate those results at Anfield — despite the departure of Mohamed Salah.
Able to operate on the left flank, the freedom afforded to Bournemouth's attackers could enable the German to establish himself amongst the league's elite players.Yan Diomande has been heavily linked with a transfer to Liverpool(Image: Getty Images)The chance to exploit half-spaces, link up with teammates in the final third, and make delayed runs into the box could prove exactly what Wirtz required following a disappointing maiden season at Anfield.Hugo Ekitike might well have secured a starting berth in Iraola's first match, given his pressing capabilities from the front, but with his ACL injury set to sideline him for the season's opening half, Alexander Isak steps up.The Swede suffered a disastrous debut campaign on Merseyside, managing just four goals in 22 appearances. His maiden World Cup awaits this month as he hopes to rediscover the form that prompted the Reds to pay a British record £125million fee last September.While the 26-year-old may not excel at spearheading the press, his finishing prowess cannot be overlooked in a side losing the Premier League's greatest goal-scoring winger in history.Dream Liverpool starting XIAlisson; Dumfries, Jacquet, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Szoboszlai; Diomande, Wirtz, Ngumoha; Isak.