Liverpool fans got their first real glimpse of new signing Victor Munoz in a behind-closed-doors friendly against Como, and the winger did not disappoint. The 23-year-old Spaniard, who joined from Osasuna for £34.5m, terrorised the Serie A defence with his pace and trickery during his 46 minutes on the pitch.
Munoz shows what Liverpool were missing
Munoz's performance was a stark contrast to Liverpool's attack last season, which lacked the explosive acceleration that made Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez so deadly. Diaz was sold to Bayern Munich for £65.5m after failing to agree a new contract, and went on to have a career-best season in Bavaria with 26 goals and 23 assists.
The Reds spent £450m on new signings, including Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz, but still lacked that spark. Munoz, however, provided it against Como, with one solo run beating two defenders and a cross creating Liverpool's first shot on target.
Gradual introduction expected
Despite his impressive showing, Munoz is not expected to start the season as a regular. Head coach Andoni Iraola started him in the behind-closed-doors match rather than the one at Anfield, suggesting Cody Gakpo and Rio Ngumoha will be the starting widemen. Munoz's introduction to English football is likely to be gradual, with a Premier League debut against Newcastle next weekend possibly too soon.
Barcola pursuit continues
Meanwhile, Liverpool continue to pursue Paris Saint-Germain's Bradley Barcola. The France international was an unused substitute in PSG's European Super Cup win over Aston Villa and did not appear enthused. PSG boss Luis Enrique hinted at a potential exit, saying, "When a player doesn’t want to come here, or doesn’t have a smile on their face about being here, it is better to find another solution."
Talks between PSG and Liverpool are ongoing, and a solution is hoped to be found swiftly. If Barcola arrives, he would compete with Munoz for starting opportunities. But regardless, Munoz's showing against Como suggests he could be a key piece in Liverpool's new-look attack.
