Former Liverpool and England right-back Glen Johnson has dismissed concerns that new head coach Andoni Iraola's lack of European experience will harm his standing in the dressing room, while urging the club to focus on improving the players he inherits as much as making new signings.
Iraola's appointment and Johnson's view
Iraola, 43, was appointed as Liverpool boss on Thursday, June 4, replacing Arne Slot who was dismissed on May 30 after a difficult season. The Spaniard joins after impressive spells at Bournemouth and Rayo Vallecano, but taking over the 20-time English champions represents a significant step up, with his first Champions League campaign ahead.
Johnson believes Slot's departure was necessary, saying: "Something needed to happen - they have too good a squad to have mediocre years. The trajectory under Slot wasn't as positive as it will be under the new manager."
He added: "Iraola is a top manager. If he can rally the players to buy into his technical style, I think they will challenge in all competitions next season."
Dressing room dynamics
Johnson dismissed concerns about Iraola's European experience: "Players are always open to change. The Liverpool players won't be worried about his European experience; they'll give him a chance." He emphasised the need for Iraola to "get into that dressing room after the World Cup and put all the unrest to bed."
Transfer priorities
While Liverpool are linked with wingers like RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande and PSG's Bradley Barcola, Johnson urged caution: "Liverpool do need some signings to bulk out the squad, but I'm not sure they need to strengthen too many positions. What they need is to get their best players to perform consistently."
He noted that 60% of Liverpool's squad underperformed last season, adding: "They have an unbelievable squad already. The players need to start enjoying their football again."
Right-back concerns
Johnson highlighted the unresolved right-back issue following Trent Alexander-Arnold's departure. Jeremie Frimpong, signed last summer, has struggled with fitness and is not a natural right-back, while Conor Bradley is recovering from a serious injury. Johnson said: "Liverpool's struggles at right back haven't been solved one bit. This is a problem that Liverpool must address this summer."
Johnson also commented on potential targets like AC Milan's Rafael Leao, but stressed the club's data-driven approach: "Liverpool analyse numbers, stats and performances before making purchases. They'll be shrewd in the market."
