Andoni Iraola has publicly backed Liverpool's big-money signings Florian Wirtz and Bradley Barcola, stating he has "100% trust" in the duo despite their underwhelming start to the season. The Liverpool manager's comments come as the Reds prepare to face LASK in the Champions League on Wednesday, with three key forwards still sidelined.
Injury Crisis Hits Liverpool Attack
Liverpool will again be without Alexander Isak, Cody Gakpo, and Dominik Szoboszlai when they travel to Austria. All three are carrying minor injuries sustained on international duty, and Iraola admitted he does not know when they will return. Their absence places heightened responsibility on Wirtz and Barcola, who both struggled in Sunday's defeat to Manchester City—Liverpool's first under Iraola.
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Wirtz and Barcola Under Pressure to Perform
Barcola, a £123m arrival from Paris Saint-Germain, is yet to score or assist in six appearances for Liverpool. He has not even won possession in the final third, a statistic that highlights his struggles to adapt. Wirtz, meanwhile, has just one assist this season and continues to underwhelm in a Liverpool shirt.
"Cody, Alex and Dom are our top scorers this season and now we don't have them. We need other players to give us those numbers," Iraola said. "We trust the players we have now to play in those positions. With Bradley and Flo, they have had good games and bad games this season like everyone else. We know their level and we know they will give us good performances."
Statistical Comparison: Wirtz vs. Barcola
| Player | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Possession Won in Final Third |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Florian Wirtz | 6 | 0 | 1 | 2 |
| Bradley Barcola | 6 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
The table above underscores the pressure on both players. While Wirtz has shown glimpses of creativity, Barcola's lack of impact in the final third is concerning for a player of his price tag.
Key Takeaways
- Iraola retains full confidence in Wirtz and Barcola despite slow starts.
- Liverpool are missing three top scorers due to injury.
- Barcola has yet to register a goal or assist in six games.
- Wirtz has only one assist this season.
- Other squad members must step up in the absence of key forwards.
What Iraola Expects from the Squad
Iraola's message is clear: the entire squad must contribute. "The other day, if [Lewis] Koumas scores the goal that he connects with really well, then it is one assist for Bradley Barcola," he noted, highlighting how fine margins can change perceptions. The manager believes that with time, the new signings will justify their price tags.
Liverpool fans will be hoping for a turnaround in fortunes against LASK. With the Champions League offering a fresh stage, Wirtz and Barcola have the perfect opportunity to silence critics and repay Iraola's faith.
FAQ
Why does Iraola trust Wirtz and Barcola?
Iraola trusts them because he knows their quality from training and previous performances. He believes they will deliver once they adapt fully to the team's style.
How many goals has Bradley Barcola scored for Liverpool?
Barcola has not scored any goals in his first six appearances for Liverpool since his £123m move from PSG.
Who are Liverpool's injured players?
Alexander Isak, Cody Gakpo, and Dominik Szoboszlai are all out with minor injuries sustained on international duty.
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