Andoni Iraola is facing early challenges at Liverpool as the club's World Cup participants could delay full squad integration for preseason. The new manager is expected to begin training around July 13, but eight Liverpool players are still competing in the tournament, potentially missing the start of preparations and the three-game US tour starting July 25 against Sunderland.
World Cup Disruptions
Liverpool have eight representatives at the World Cup, including new signing Victor Munoz. Spain, Germany, the Netherlands, Argentina, Brazil and Sweden have opportunities to progress further, with Germany and Argentina already securing knockout spots. Florian Wirtz and Alexis Mac Allister will continue playing into July. Liverpool's policy allows players three weeks off after major tournaments, meaning those reaching the round of 16 (starting July 4) may not feature in the US tour.
Transfer Plans Under Scrutiny
Jamie Carragher has urged Liverpool to reconsider their pursuit of 19-year-old Yan Diomande. The Reds offered €100m (£86m) for the winger, but RB Leipzig demand €130m (£112m). Carragher told Sky Sports: "I thought he was fantastic in the first game of the World Cup. Less so in the second game, but still was a real danger. I think what you'd be buying is potential, it's not what he is right now." He added: "Liverpool spent big last summer. Right now, a year on, we probably would say those players don't look worth it."
Summer Signings So Far
Liverpool have already secured deals for Victor Munoz, Jeremy Jacquet, and young defender Ifeanyi Ndukwe. Last summer, the club spent £446m on signings including Alexander Isak (£125m), Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez, Giorgi Mamardashvili, Giovanni Leoni, Armin Pesci and Freddie Woodman.
