Liverpool’s new manager Andoni Iraola began his tenure with consecutive 2-2 draws, first at Newcastle United last Sunday and then at Anfield against Nottingham Forest on Saturday. Both results underscored the challenges facing Iraola as he seeks to stabilize a team still adapting to his leadership and tactical approach.

In the match against Forest, Liverpool twice came from behind to secure a point, with two equalizing goals originating from the right wing—a position previously occupied by Mohamed Salah. Victor Munoz, signed by Liverpool for £34 million, played a key role in the team’s resilience, delivering a late, powerful goal on his Anfield debut. Munoz’s introduction to the starting lineup followed his influential substitution appearance at St James’ Park, where he won a penalty that Dominik Szoboszlai converted in the 99th minute to salvage a draw. His ability to impact games from both right and left flanks suggests flexibility in Iraola’s tactical plans, with the club’s recent £123 million acquisition Bradley Barcola expected to assume duties on the left.

Cody Gakpo contributed Liverpool’s first equalizer against Forest by assisting Alexander Isak, who scored his second Premier League goal at Anfield for the club. Gakpo, primarily a left-sided player, started on the right wing but now faces uncertainty regarding his future as the transfer window progresses.

Liverpool’s defensive vulnerabilities again came under scrutiny. Both matches revealed a susceptibility to counter-attacks—an issue Iraola must address. Against Newcastle, the opposition scored with direct runs through Liverpool’s central areas. Forest capitalized on long balls and quick throw-ins, including one executed by debutant Liam Delap shortly after his £45 million transfer from Chelsea, which facilitated their second goal. The equalizing goals appeared in contrast to these defensive lapses, highlighting inconsistency in Liverpool’s performances under the new coach.

Nottingham Forest’s manager Oliver Glasner expressed mixed feelings after the draw. While praising his team’s effort, he voiced disappointment at not securing three points, reflecting the competitive nature of the fixture and the fine margins that determined the outcome.

Both managers remain without a win after the opening two rounds of the Premier League campaign. Iraola acknowledged the team’s uneven display, noting a poor first half but finding encouragement in the improvement during the second. His willingness to implement strategic substitutions, while occasionally disrupted by opposing teams’ rapid restarts, indicates a hands-on approach that may evolve as the season unfolds.

Liverpool’s fast-paced but at times error-prone style under Iraola suggests a transitional phase for the club, which continues to seek stability following previous departures and high-profile transfers. The forthcoming transfer window and subsequent matches will be critical in defining the team’s trajectory under their new manager.