Andoni Iraola explains why the referee congratulated Liverpool after their loss, calling the claim ‘too honest.’
Andoni Iraola shared why a referee actually praised Liverpool even though they lost, calling the Reds “too honest” in their losses against Arsenal and Fenerbahce.
Liverpool lost 1-0 to Arsenal at Anfield last weekend in a controversial game, and Iraola thinks the team’s honesty means they don’t get as many referee calls their way. During that match, Alexander Isak wasn’t given a penalty after being pulled back by Jurrien Timber. Before Liverpool’s game against Crystal Palace this Sunday, Iraola explained that the Reds’ “very good behavior” might be part of why they’ve faced some tough moments in the Premier League.
According to Opta data, Liverpool have been awarded only 88 fouls this season, fewer than almost all other Premier League teams. Plus, they have committed the most fouls themselves, 128, and have the highest rate of free-kicks given against them in matches (58%).
In a pre-match interview, Iraola spoke about Liverpool often ending up on the wrong side of referee decisions this season. He said, “I don’t want to talk too much about referees,” but also called Liverpool “too honest.” He added, “We’re a very honest team. Sometimes maybe too honest… even after the last game, the referee congratulated us. I’m not sure how I felt about that. He said our behavior has been very good, both from players and staff.”
Iraola also said, “Complaints have to be real. If we say a penalty or yellow card should be given, it has to be genuine.”
Ahead of their trip to Selhurst Park, after losing to Arsenal and Fenerbahce, Iraola also talked about Alisson’s future at Liverpool. The Brazilian goalkeeper was blamed for the only goal in the Arsenal game, after passing the ball straight to an Arsenal player. He also failed to catch a cross that led to a goal from Kai Havertz.
Iraola said it’s still unclear if Alisson will stay beyond 2027 but hopes he does. “That’s a question for Alisson,” he said about whether 2026-27 would be his last season. “I hope he stays with us longer.” He also defended the goalkeeper’s mistake, saying, “It’s hard to blame just one player. Alisson isn’t the only one responsible for those goals.” Iraola added that he encourages the team to build attacks from goal kicks.
As fans wait for more news on Alisson’s future, Iraola said talks are happening between Julian Ward, himself, and the player, but he can’t share all the details yet.
Liverpool will face Crystal Palace this Sunday at Selhurst Park, with Pierre Sage under pressure to perform.