Iraola Backs Elliott to Bounce Back
Andoni Iraola has spoken to the media for the first time as Liverpool manager, addressing the future of midfielder Harvey Elliott. The 44-year-old Basque, who replaced Arne Slot at the end of the season, praised Elliott's commitment after the 23-year-old reported early for pre-season training.
"Definitely! Harvey is here with us," Iraola told the press on Monday. "I have seen him with the eagerness to show up, get super ready, he'll have a chance in pre-season, we'll need him and it's a good sign."
Elliott's Anfield future had been uncertain after a difficult season. A regular under Jurgen Klopp, he saw his opportunities diminish under Arne Slot and joined Aston Villa on loan in September 2025. The deal included a £35million obligation to buy, conditional on 10 Premier League appearances, but he played only nine times for the Midlands club.
Iraola expressed hope that Elliott can use that disappointment as motivation. "I hope we can see him in a good place. I think Harvey comes from last season had to be difficult for him, strange situation, they couldn't even play him and I think he uses this experience - the bad situation - to make himself even more eager to be a Liverpool player."
Mac Allister on Gilberto Mora Link
Liverpool and Argentina midfielder Alexis Mac Allister has commented on speculation linking the Reds with 18-year-old Tijuana star Gilberto Mora. The Mexico international impressed during the summer and has been linked with several top clubs.
Speaking to Mexico's Claro Sports, Mac Allister said: "Honestly, I didn't see anything about it. When these things happen, you're always careful what you say, out of respect for the player and the club he belongs to. But if they're mentioning him as a possible Liverpool player, he's surely a great player. There's a reason they're mentioning him."
Mora's agent, Rafaela Pimenta, had earlier stated that the player would carefully choose his next club. "We're in no rush, but he's developing quickly. We need to study the ideal place for him to develop. At this age, you can't be the best on your team. If you're the best, you have to move to a higher-level team," Pimenta said.
She added: "At this age, you shouldn't be the leader; you have to be the kid who looks at the others and says, 'I have to be like them.' I'm going to do everything I can to sell Gilberto for a high price."
Iraola's Blueprint for Liverpool
In his first press conference, Iraola laid out his plans for Liverpool, covering tactics, ethos, and transfers. The former Bournemouth boss aims to return the club to the top of English football after a period of transition.
