Andoni Iraola's dream Liverpool starting XI as three stars axed for £164m transfers
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Andoni Iraola is the favourite to be confirmed as Liverpool's new manager, and Express Sport has predicted his preferred starting XI for next season. Read our Privacy PolicyWith Liverpool anticipated to bring in a number of new faces this summer, Express Sport examines the ideal starting XI Iraola would look to field when he begins his Liverpool tenure next season.Uncertainty surrounding Alisson Becker's future has been rife, but should he remain at Anfield, he will undoubtedly retain his status as Liverpool's first-choice keeper under Iraola.
Linking up once again with his former Cherries manager can only aid the Hungary international as he seeks to emulate Robertson's success.Uncertainty surrounds who will feature at right-back in Liverpool's opening fixture of the season. With Iraola favouring a two-man midfield, Alexis Mac Allister misses out as the Spaniard would prefer the physicality and work ethic that both Ryan Gravenberch and Dominik Szoboszlai deliver.Gravenberch was granted greater freedom to venture forward under Slot this season and, while he proved more productive in terms of goals and assists, his diminished defensive duties left Liverpool exposed at the back.The Dutchman may be asked to reprise his controlling role from his first season under Slot, with Szoboszlai retaining his box-to-box berth where he is at his most effective.
The 25-year-old openly voiced his frustration at being deployed at right-back on occasion this campaign, so a more settled position in the centre of midfield would undoubtedly suit him.AttackIraola's four-pronged attacking setup functioned brilliantly at Bournemouth, with Liverpool supporters hoping he can replicate that success at Anfield - even without Mohamed Salah. Comfortable operating on the left flank, the freedom afforded to Bournemouth's attackers could see the German cement himself amongst the Premier League's finest players.The chance to exploit half-spaces, link up with team-mates in the final third and make late runs into the box could be precisely what Wirtz requires after a disappointing debut campaign at Anfield.Hugo Ekitike might well have nailed down a starting berth in Iraola's first XI given his relentless pressing from the front, but with his ACL injury set to sideline him for the opening half of the season, Alexander Isak steps up to fill the void.The Swede endured a torrid first season on Merseyside, managing just four goals in 22 appearances.