Liverpool F.C. Will not be mounting a title charge in their first season under Andoni Iraola, according to Reds icon John Barnes. The new Premier League campaign kicks off with champions Arsenal hosting newly-promoted Coventry City on Friday, August 21. Liverpool's season-opener sees them take on Newcastle United on August 23, in what will mark the Spaniard's first competitive game in charge of the club. Iraola's appointment as Arne Slot's replacement will see the Reds return to a high-pressing, aggressive style of play, similar to the philosophy of the Dutchman's predecessor Jurgen Klopp. Despite reverting back to some of the key elements behind Liverpool's success under the German, Barnes claims that it won't be enough to mount a title challenge against the likes of the Gunners and Manchester City. The former England star believes his former side will instead be in the mix for Champions League qualification, alongside Manchester United and Chelsea. The 62-year-old predicted: "I think Arsenal and Man City will be the two favourites. Then it'll be Liverpool, Manchester United, Chelsea, so I think that will be the top five. It'd be great if Liverpool can actually win or finish second, but I think in this transitional moment, I will not be too disappointed if we finish third in Iraola's first year." Much like Arsenal were with Mikel Arteta, Barnes said Liverpool may need to be patient with their new manager before he can land any silverware. 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.