Liverpool Pre-Season Tour Exposes Squad Gaps 2026

Liverpool's pre-season tour under new head coach Andoni Iraola produced wins over Sunderland and Wrexham but ended with a 4-2 defeat to Leeds, exposing glaring squad gaps that will concern fans ahead of the Premier League opener.

Iraola's Vision Will Take Time

Liverpool's second-half display against Leeds was both concerning and valuable for Iraola, as set-piece problems and a tendency to switch off – two recurring themes from last season – resurfaced after he made changes. The first 45 minutes, however, was their best of the tour, showing how effective his front-foot, more intense style can be with the big names back.

But that process is only just under way. Iraola has yet to meet Virgil van Dijk, Cody Gakpo, Alisson, Alexis Mac Allister, and new signing Víctor Muñoz since his appointment almost two months ago. They will finally be acquainted when the squad reports back for training on Wednesday, with less than three weeks until the season opener at Newcastle.

Key Challenges Ahead

Iraola admitted, "I would like to say on the first day we are going to be perfect, everyone will be in place. But probably it is not going to be like this." The lack of preparation time with key players is a major hurdle.

Head Coach Needs More Backing

For most of the tour, Iraola was without eight first-team players due to World Cup holidays and six because of injury, including Joe Gomez, who was injured in the US. No prizes for stating that Liverpool's performances and adaptation to Iraola's methods would have been much more advanced with 14 extra first-team players available.

Even so, glaring gaps remain in the team when every option is taken into account. The squad lacks depth in central defense and midfield, and the reliance on young players during the tour highlighted the need for reinforcements.

Comparison: Liverpool's Tour Stats vs. Last Season

Key Takeaways from the Tour

• Iraola's pressing style showed promise in the first half against Leeds, but fitness and familiarity are lacking.
• Set-piece vulnerability remains a critical weakness, needing immediate tactical fixes.
• Squad depth is insufficient; Liverpool must sign at least two players before the transfer window closes.
• Integration time is minimal, with only two friendlies left before the Newcastle match.

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