Jamie Carragher has changed his mind about Liverpool's Premier League title chances under Andoni Iraola, now saying it is 'inconceivable' that Manchester City would remain title contenders if punished for their 115 financial rule breaches.
The Liverpool legend had previously questioned whether Iraola could make the step up to managing one of England's biggest clubs after his three-year spell at Bournemouth.
From scepticism to cautious optimism
Writing in his column for The Telegraph, Carragher admitted he initially had reservations about Iraola's appointment.
"I count myself as one of those on a journey with Iraola from initial scepticism following his appointment towards cautious optimism having seen his vision starting to take shape," he wrote.
"My fear at the start of the season was that Liverpool employed a manager who had never won a trophy, nor managed in European competition. These did not strike me as solid credentials for a job of such stature."
City case changes the picture
Carragher now believes any significant points deduction handed to City could rule them out of the title race, giving Liverpool a greater opportunity to reclaim the title they won under Arne Slot during the 2024/25 campaign.
"The guilty verdict in the Manchester City case has altered the complexion of the season, and emboldened those who want to seize the initiative," he said.
"Now we expect City to be punished soon. Given the nature and severity of their misdemeanours it is inconceivable they will be a title contender if that happens. The door is open for those in the chasing pack with the capacity and will to walk through it."
Iraola's start at Anfield
The 44-year-old has overseen four victories in his opening eight Premier League matches, while Liverpool have made a perfect start to their Champions League campaign, winning all three games to sit third in the standings.
Liverpool return to Premier League action this weekend after booking their place in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals, where they will face Iraola's former side Bournemouth. The Reds host title rivals Arsenal at Anfield on Sunday, November 1, with kick-off scheduled for 4:30pm.
