Liverpool’s inaugural pre-season tour under new head coach Andoni Iraola highlighted both promising developments and existing challenges as the team prepares for the upcoming Premier League campaign. The tour, which included victories over Sunderland in Nashville and Wrexham in New York before concluding with a 4-2 defeat against Leeds United in Chicago, revealed areas in need of reinforcement and adaptation.

Iraola, appointed less than two months ago, has yet to fully integrate several key players into his system, including Virgil van Dijk, Cody Gakpo, Alisson, Alexis Mac Allister, and new signing Victor Muñoz. The squad resumes training this week, with Mac Allister absent as he continues recovery from World Cup participation. With less than three weeks and only two friendlies remaining—both home matches against Como—before their Premier League opener at Newcastle, the process of embedding Iraola’s tactical approach remains at an early stage.

The tour was conducted under the constraints of World Cup-related absences and injuries, leaving Iraola without eight first-team regulars due to international duties and six additional players sidelined by injury. Joe Gomez, who suffered an injury in the United States, remains a concern given his recent fitness record. The squad’s limited depth was particularly evident at right-back, where the loss of Mohamed Salah, confirmed in March and yet to be replaced, has left a notable void. Conor Bradley’s severe knee injury further exposes defensive vulnerabilities, though young prospects Jérémy Jacquet, Giovanni Leoni, and 18-year-olds Ifeanyi Ndukwe and Mor Talla Ndiaye showed encouraging performances during the tour. However, Ndukwe faces eligibility issues due to post-Brexit work permit regulations.

Iraola’s tactical preference for wingers capable of operating on both flanks could provide flexibility, but the right side remains an area of concern even if the club secures the signing of Bradley Barcola from Paris Saint-Germain.

The tour also offered a platform for emerging talents, with midfielder Trey Nyoni standing out. The 19-year-old impressed with his composure, attacking instincts, and ability to execute Iraola’s fast-paced, forward-thinking style. Having been on the fringes last season with six Premier League substitute appearances, Nyoni appeared set for increased involvement this season. His creative contribution included a notable assist during the match against Leeds, reflecting his rapid development.

In contrast, Curtis Jones, entering the final year of his contract amid reported interest from Inter Milan, appeared less comfortable with Iraola’s demands. Particularly in midfield, Jones struggled to adapt, and his reaction to being passed over for the captaincy in favor of Dominik Szoboszlai against Wrexham and Kostas Tsimikas against Sunderland drew attention. While the players downplayed any discord, the episode highlighted potential challenges in squad dynamics under Iraola’s emphasis on collective cohesion.

Szoboszlai, who signed a new five-year contract recently, emerged as a key figure during the tour in the absence of Liverpool’s usual leaders Salah, Robertson, van Dijk, and Alisson. The Hungarian captain earned strong support from fans and teammates alike, demonstrating leadership in training and matches. His central role positions him as a likely vice-captain as the team begins a new chapter with Iraola at the helm.

Overall, Liverpool’s US tour showcased promising signs of adaptation to Iraola’s vision but underscored the immediate need for reinforcements and squad cohesion ahead of a demanding season.