Liverpool's 2026-27 Season Preview: Five Crucial Questions Under New Boss Andoni Iraola

New Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola aims to use his high-octane attacking style to move past the disappointments of a previous title defense where an expensive squad underperformed. As the new campaign approaches, Liverpool prepares for their opening fixture against Newcastle United, giving fans their first look at the Spanish coach in charge.

Can Iraola revive Liverpool’s title credentials while imposing his own style? Following a fifth-place finish and a defensive collapse under Arne Slot, Iraola arrives from Bournemouth with an intense pressing approach reminiscent of peak Jurgen Klopp. However, adapting the squad to this demanding style remains an ongoing challenge.

Following Mohamed Salah's departure, Liverpool has opted against a direct replacement, instead looking to 23-year-old Spain international Victor Munoz, academy product Rio Ngumoha, and Jeremie Frimpong to fill the gap on the wings.

The club also looks to unlock the potential of record signings Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz, both of whom suffered through injury-plagued and inconsistent campaigns previously. Iraola's tactical approach is expected to better suit their talents this term.

To mend a leaky defense that conceded 53 goals, Iraola has brought in center-back Ronald Araujo on loan from Barcelona alongside young French defender Jeremy Jacquet, while Ibrahima Konate has departed. Questions still linger regarding the full-back positions and the integration of a high defensive line alongside captain Virgil van Dijk and left-back Milos Kerkez.

Finally, off the pitch, Fenway Sports Group's agreement to sell a significant stake in the club to 1892 Holdings—a consortium including Jeff Bezos, Eduardo Saverin, and the Mittal family—brings new financial dimensions to the club as Iraola kicks off his rebuilding project.