In his first press conference, Andoni Iraola quickly shared what he wants from Liverpool’s next transfer.
Liverpool has welcomed two new players this summer, but head coach Andoni Iraola has clearly told owners FSG that the team “needs more” signings ahead of the 2026-27 season.
On Monday morning, Iraola spoke to the media for the first time since becoming Liverpool’s head coach. The 44-year-old, who led Bournemouth to a Europa League spot after finishing sixth, talked about many things, including the club’s transfer plans.
He started by explaining why the next season will be a “big challenge,” pointing out the need for a bigger squad. “Most weeks, we won’t get a full week of rest because of midweek games, but that’s a great chance to use more players,” he said. “It’s impossible to handle a season like this with only 15 players. You need a full squad.”
Iraola added that the team needs to be ready for injuries and tough periods, especially in December and January. “We have to be prepared with squad depth to meet the demands of the season.”
The coach will be without star striker Hugo Ekitike for the first few weeks as he recovers from an Achilles injury. Conor Bradley and Geovanni Leoni are also sidelined with long-term injuries.
“When it comes to improving the team, we need to replace key players who contributed a lot, especially those who will be out for a while,” Iraola said.
Victor Munoz was Iraola’s first signing after joining from Osasuna last month, and defender Jeremy Jacquet also arrived this summer from Rennes. But Iraola knows they still need more players to strengthen the squad.
“We’ve signed two players, but we need more—we know this,” he said. “We are working hard on it. As a coach, I want all players here from day one, but we understand it doesn’t always work like that.”
Iraola also gave an update on Harvey Elliott, who returned to Liverpool after a tough loan at Aston Villa. Asked if Elliott has a future at the club, Iraola said, “Definitely. Harvey is eager and ready to prove himself. He’ll get a chance in pre-season, and we’ll need him—it’s a good sign.”
Liverpool is reportedly interested in Roma midfielder Manu Kone, who shone for France at the World Cup, and Morocco’s Ayyoub Bouaddi, another standout player. Both could help strengthen the central areas.
For a possible Mo Salah replacement, Liverpool has been linked with several names, including Bradley Barcola, Said El Mala, Yankuba Minteh, and Yan Diomande, who looks set to join Paris Saint-Germain.