Bradley Barcola made his long-awaited Liverpool debut in Friday's 2-0 Premier League win over Ipswich Town, but the winger has been handed a stern warning about his prospects of starting games. The victory, Liverpool's first of the season, came courtesy of Alexander Isak's first brace for the Reds.
After consecutive 2-2 draws against Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest, Andoni Iraola's side are officially in the win column. The result was made sweeter by Barcola's 26-minute cameo in his first appearance for the club since his £123million transfer.
Barcola warned over Gakpo form
Barcola, Liverpool's latest marquee signing, came on in the 64th minute for Victor Munoz and showcased his impressive speed and dribbling ability at Portman Road. The 23-year-old France international's introduction on the left flank meant Cody Gakpo moved up top after Isak was taken off.
However, Barcola has been warned that starting games for his new side will be a struggle because of Gakpo's form. Gakpo has arguably been Liverpool's best player in their opening three games, scoring once and assisting three goals despite a proposed £85m move to Manchester City on deadline day being called off.
Liverpool icon Jamie Carragher admitted on X that Barcola may very well continue to sit on the bench with Gakpo firing on all cylinders. Carragher wrote after Friday's game: "Barcola is going to struggle to get a game with this version of Gakpo."
Richard Hughes leaves Liverpool
Liverpool have announced the departure of Richard Hughes after his two-year reign as sporting director. The Reds revealed the news on Saturday, with the Scotsman now expected to join Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal.
Hughes informed Liverpool of his intention to leave Anfield earlier this year, but agreed to remain in his role for the remainder of the summer transfer window. Since joining the club in 2024, Hughes has led the transition from Jurgen Klopp and appointed Arne Slot upon his own arrival.
Hughes' tenure in Merseyside has seen the Reds win the Premier League title and spend around £670m across five transfer windows. Fenway Sports Group (FSG) president Mike Gordon is leading the search for the club's next sporting director.
While it's not yet known when Hughes' potential successor will be named, the club are relying on other senior figures to take responsibility for his duties in the meantime. That includes the likes of FSG technical director Julian Ward, FSG director of football development Pedro Marques, assistant sporting director David Woodfine, chief scout Barry Hunter and Iraola.
