Liverpool F.C. manager Andoni Iraola praised his new-look defence after a 2-0 pre-season win over Como, with Cody Gakpo and Jeremy Jacquet scoring key goals. The Reds are still chasing an elite attacker, with a move for Paris Saint-Germain star Bradley Barcola still on the cards.
What happened?
Liverpool F.C. defeated Como 2-0 in their final pre-season match on Sunday, with Andoni Iraola impressed by the new-look defence. Goals from Cody Gakpo and Jeremy Jacquet ensured the Reds went into their first Premier League game of the season with renewed confidence.
Why it matters for Liverpool F.C.
Liverpool F.C. endured a tricky tour of the United States, with new boss Iraola desperately short of defenders. Iraola was forced to field Ifeanyi Ndukwe, 18, Luke Chambers, 22, and Mor Talla Ndiaye, 18, in pre-season, with Virgil van Dijk given a break after the World Cup, Joe Gomez ruled out early on, Jacquet not ready after injury and Giovanni Leoni also still rehabilitating from a long-term knee injury.
What comes next?
With Ibrahima Konate released on a free transfer at the end of last season, there is a place up for grabs alongside Van Dijk in central defence for the 2026/27 campaign. With Gomez and Leoni fighting to get fit, it is a race between Jacquet - a £55million signing from Rennes - and Ronald Araujo, a loan signing from Barcelona. Jacquet got the nod from the start against Como and got on the score sheet with a tap-in before being replaced by Araujo at half-time. Both players took the opportunity to catch Iraola's eye, along with right-back Jeremie Frimpong.
Liverpool F.C. begin their 2026/27 campaign against Newcastle at St James' Park on Sunday with some unanswered questions over their squad. The Reds are still chasing an elite attacker, with a move for Paris Saint-Germain star Bradley Barcola still on the cards.
League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 5th in Premier League, 60 pts, 17W-9D-12L from 38 games, recent form DLDLW. Goals this season: 63 scored, 53 conceded (+10 goal difference). Title race: 25 points behind leaders Arsenal.
