Andoni Iraola has opened the door for four Liverpool players to make a stunning return to the first team. The appointment of the Spanish coach as Arne Slot's successor earlier this month gives several Reds stars a fresh opportunity to force their way back into the club's plans.
Iraola's Philosophy: Every Player a New Signing
Iraola, 43, was lauded throughout his three-year spell at Bournemouth, guiding them to sixth in the table last season and securing the club's first-ever European campaign. A notable aspect of his reign was player development, with talents like Dean Huijsen, Antoine Semenyo, and Eli Junior Kroupi becoming highly sought after. Milos Kerkez spent two years under Iraola before moving to Anfield last year.
Speaking about his approach, Iraola said: "For me, and I will tell them, [they] are all new signings. For me, you are all new signings and I think we have a lot of quality in our squad, and [I'm] really looking forward to working with them."
Four Players Set for Revival
Harvey Elliott
The 23-year-old will be eager to restart his career after a disastrous loan move to Aston Villa, where he was limited to just nine appearances. A year on from being named Player of the Tournament at the U21 Euros, the midfielder finds himself at a crossroads. Before his Villa move, Elliott had seen his Liverpool minutes decrease during Slot's first year in charge. Another change of manager gives him a second chance to revive his Liverpool career.
Stefan Bajcetic
Stefan Bajcetic last played for Liverpool in May 2024. The talented 21-year-old has seen his career trajectory hampered by injuries but could be one of the gems Iraola takes a shine to. Before the Reds overhauled their midfield two years ago, the Spaniard emerged as a long-term prospect with 19 appearances. However, injuries have derailed his path. Bajcetic has already cut short his summer to work on his fitness ahead of pre-season.
Kostas Tsimikas
Kostas Tsimikas could provide Iraola with an instant solution at left-back following Andy Robertson's exit. While Iraola is likely to make Kerkez his first-choice, the Hungarian needs competition. Tsimikas, 30, spent last season on loan at Roma making 25 appearances. With another year left on his Liverpool contract, he could be an important squad player.
James McConnell
The promising midfielder joined Ajax last summer but his move did not go to plan. James McConnell played seven games before officially returning to Liverpool in February and undergoing shoulder surgery. The 21-year-old has featured for the Reds on 13 occasions and will hope to impress Iraola this summer.
