Liverpool readies 2026‑27 squad under new boss Andoni Iraola

Andoni Iraola was appointed Liverpool’s head coach in early June 2026 and has spent the pre‑season outlining the club’s rebuilding plan. He warned that the departures of Mohamed Salah, Andy Robertson and Ibrahima Konaté have left a “very thin” squad and said Liverpool “definitely need to sign a winger” and reinforce defensive depth. So far the Reds have added centre‑back Jeremy Jacquet and midfielder Victor Munoz, while future signings include 17‑year‑old Samuel Martinez (effective 2027) and 19‑year‑old Japanese midfielder Mao Itamura for the women’s side. Iraola confirmed he intends to keep goalkeeper Alisson Becker, describing him as a “decisive” leader, and also wants to retain Argentina midfielder Alexis Mac Allister despite World Cup interest. He hinted that Mac Allister and Munoz might miss the opening league match against Newcastle due to limited post‑World Cup training. Transfer targets mentioned include winger Bradley Barcola, right‑back Illia Zabarnyi, and Barcelona forward Ferran Torres, while he cautioned owners Fenway Sports Group to move quickly in the market. The coach’s comments were made during a press conference in Chicago ahead of Liverpool’s US pre‑season tour.