Andoni Iraola's preparations for the 2026/27 Premier League season have hit an early obstacle as the World Cup threatens to delay the return of up to eight Liverpool players. The new manager, who took over at Anfield this summer, is expected to begin pre-season training around July 13, but several key squad members are still competing in the tournament.
World Cup Disruption Looms Over Pre-Season
Liverpool have eight representatives at the World Cup, including new signing Victor Munoz, captain Virgil van Dijk, and Alexis Mac Allister. Germany and Argentina have already advanced to the knockout stages, meaning Florian Wirtz and Mac Allister are guaranteed further fixtures into July. Spain, the Netherlands, Brazil, and Sweden also have strong chances of progressing.
The round of 16 begins on July 4, and with Liverpool's policy of granting players three weeks off after international tournaments, those involved are likely to miss the club's three-match US tour, which starts with a friendly against Sunderland on July 25. Iraola may have to wait until early August before he can work with a full squad ahead of the season opener.
Carragher Questions £112m Diomande Pursuit
Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has urged the club to reconsider their pursuit of Yan Diomande, with RB Leipzig demanding at least €130m (£112m) for the 19-year-old winger. The Reds have already tabled an offer of €100m (£86m), but Carragher believes the fee represents a gamble on potential rather than proven quality.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Carragher said: "I thought he was fantastic in the first game of the World Cup. Less so in the second game, but still was a real danger. I think what you'd be buying is potential, it's not what he is right now. He's a 19-year-old kid, he's a young man. But when you look at him physically, he looks like he's got all those attributes."
Carragher highlighted Liverpool's need for pace in wide areas, which Diomande could address, but cautioned: "Is he worth it? Time will tell. As I said, Liverpool spent big last summer. Right now, a year on, we probably would say those players don't look worth it."
Liverpool's Costly Summer Spending
Last summer, Liverpool spent a staggering £446m on new arrivals, including £125m on Alexander Isak, plus Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez, Giorgi Mamardashvili, Giovanni Leoni, Armin Pesci, and Freddie Woodman. This summer, they have already secured Victor Munoz and Jeremy Jacquet, with young defender Ifeanyi Ndukwe also set to join.
Carragher's comments reflect concerns over whether the club is overpaying for potential rather than established talent, especially given the high fees involved. The Reds continue to monitor Diomande's performances at the World Cup, where he is representing Ivory Coast.
