Andoni Iraola has spoken to the media for the first time since becoming Liverpool head coach, outlining his plans for the team and addressing the future of midfielder Harvey Elliott. The former Bournemouth manager took over at the end of the season after Arne Slot was dismissed following an underwhelming second campaign at Anfield.
Iraola on Harvey Elliott
Iraola praised Elliott's dedication during pre-season and expressed confidence that the 23-year-old can use last season's frustrations to reclaim a starting spot. "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. 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."
Elliott was a regular under Jurgen Klopp but saw his opportunities limited under Slot. He secured a loan move to Aston Villa in September 2025, with a £35 million obligation to buy if he made 10 Premier League appearances. However, he managed only nine outings for the Midlands club.
Mac Allister on Gilberto Mora
Liverpool and Argentina midfielder Alexis Mac Allister commented on the club's reported interest in Tijuana sensation Gilberto Mora, who impressed for Mexico this summer. 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."
The 18-year-old's representative, Rafaela Pimenta, stated ahead of the World Cup that Mora would take his time choosing his next destination. "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. 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 Tactical Vision
Iraola also discussed his tactical philosophy and transfer plans, aiming to steer Liverpool in a new direction. He emphasized the importance of pre-season and integrating young talents like Elliott into his system. The Basque manager's first press conference marked the beginning of a new era at Anfield, with fans eager to see how his approach will reshape the squad.
