Iraola Out to Wing It Both Ways

By the Editorial Team · Friday, July 31, 2026

Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola has stressed that new wingers must be versatile enough to play effectively on both flanks to fit the team's tactical approach. This flexibility is key to increasing unpredictability and adapting to match situations, especially as Liverpool pursue a potential signing of Bradley Barcola from Paris Saint-Germain.

Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola has emphasized the importance of versatility among his wide players ahead of the upcoming season, stating that any new winger must be capable of operating effectively on both flanks. Speaking at a press conference in Chicago during Liverpool’s pre-season tour in the United States, Iraola highlighted the tactical advantages of having adaptable wingers to enhance unpredictability and squad utility.

The Reds secured a 1-0 victory against Wrexham at Yankee Stadium in New York on Wednesday, with second-half substitute Rio Ngumoha making a notable impact while playing out wide on the right flank—a position less familiar to him. Iraola indicated that such adaptability aligns with his strategic approach, where wingers must be ready to meet various tactical demands, including shifting positions based on match-ups or defensive responsibilities.

Liverpool are reportedly preparing to engage in negotiations with Paris Saint-Germain regarding the potential signing of French international Bradley Barcola, who predominantly plays on the left wing and is valued at approximately £145 million by the European champions. Despite the high valuation, Liverpool aim to agree on a lowered transfer fee. Iraola’s remarks suggest the club plans to integrate any new arrivals within a flexible offensive system that requires players to adapt across wide positions.

“It is a great skill to have because in the end you become less predictable,” Iraola said. He noted that while players typically have a preferred side, their deployment might only cover roughly 70 percent of game time there. By developing the ability to perform on either flank, wingers not only increase their playing opportunities but also enable the team to exploit specific tactical weaknesses in opponents.

Iraola also acknowledged that the team’s structure often lacks symmetry, meaning wide players may need to vary their defensive involvement or positioning—playing higher or more inside or outside depending on the situation. He cited experience from his previous managerial roles, where wingers frequently switched sides during matches, and expressed a desire for similar flexibility at Liverpool.

As pre-season progresses, Iraola intends to assess where each winger is most comfortable while encouraging them to embrace dual-role capabilities to strengthen Liverpool’s tactical options in the forthcoming campaign.

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