Liverpool failed to secure their first Premier League victory at Anfield under manager Andoni Iraola, settling for a goalless draw against Fulham on Saturday. The match, which took place in front of a crowd of 60,160, underscored Liverpool’s ongoing struggles this season, leaving the team with just four league wins in 2026.
Liverpool entered the contest as one of the most expensive squads globally, while Fulham arrived without a league win or points so far, amid speculation surrounding their own manager, Alvaro Arbeloa. Despite these differing contexts, the match’s tempo and quality suggested a more even contest, with Liverpool displaying a lack of cohesion and sharpness across the pitch.
The Reds’ performance was marked by uncertainty and several uncharacteristic errors, particularly from midfielders Florian Wirtz and Dominik Szoboszlai. The latter occasionally misdirected passes, which ultimately played into Fulham’s hands. Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson also experienced a rare moment of vulnerability when he passed to Ryan Gravenberch under pressure inside the box, narrowly avoiding a Fulham goal after a last-ditch clearance by Jeremy Jacquet.
Liverpool’s offensive efforts were largely limited to sporadic half-chances. Their most notable opportunities came from Victor Munoz, whose header was saved by Fulham’s Bernd Leno, and a stoppage-time header by Alexander Isak that missed the target. Bradley Barcola, Liverpool’s £123 million signing, showed glimpses of promise in his first Premier League start, creating the team’s opening chance by threading a pass through Fulham’s defense to Isak. However, Barcola failed to consistently replicate the dangerous pace he displayed recently, partly attributed by Iraola to ongoing physical conditioning following a lack of preseason preparation.
Iraola acknowledged his team’s difficulties in creating scoring opportunities, citing the tight turnaround after midweek Champions League action as a contributing factor. “There is definitely a lack of freshness,” he said, remarking that the tight schedule hindered his team’s performance.
Fulham, by contrast, displayed confidence and control, pressuring Liverpool’s defense and earning key chances late in the game. Josh King was given freedom on Liverpool’s side of the pitch, though the visitors ultimately lacked the precision necessary to convert their opportunities into goals.
For Fulham manager Alvaro Arbeloa, the draw offered a modest reprieve amid challenges beneath the surface. Arbeloa, who has faced rumors of unrest within the squad, praised his players’ character and ambition during the match. “When you are not winning, it is not easy for your players to believe in your ideas,” he said. “I am happy with the point but more with the performance.”
In a match defined by missed opportunities and noticeable caution, both teams now face pressure to improve as the Premier League season progresses. Liverpool, hoping to reverse their fortunes at home, must address their creativity and concentration to capitalize on a squad valued at over a billion pounds. Meanwhile, Fulham will aim to build on the spirit shown at Anfield as they seek their first league victory of the campaign.
Liverpool lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation with Alisson in goal, supported by defenders Jacquet, Van Dijk, Araujo, and Tzimikas. Midfield roles were occupied by Szoboszlai, Gravenberch, Munoz, Wirtz, and Barcola, with Isak leading the attack. Fulham deployed a similar 4-2-3-1 setup, with Leno guarding the goal and a front line featuring Garcia and King. Referee Thomas Bramall officiated the encounter.