Andoni Iraola has confirmed his intention to retain key Liverpool players Alexis Mac Allister and Alisson ahead of the club’s upcoming Premier League campaign. Speaking in Chicago as Liverpool commenced their pre-season tour in the United States, the new head coach emphasized the importance of keeping core members of his squad while also addressing the need to strengthen areas affected by injury.
Despite transfer speculation linking Mac Allister with Real Madrid following Argentina’s exit from the World Cup, Iraola insisted the 27-year-old midfielder remains integral to Liverpool’s plans for the season. He acknowledged that Mac Allister might not be fully fit for the Premier League opener at Newcastle United due to the post-World Cup break but underscored the club’s commitment to retaining him. “I think Alexis has been one of the best players at the club for the last few years, and he has had a very good World Cup, so it is normal that other clubs want our best players. But I want to keep my good players,” Iraola said.
Similarly, Alisson’s future had come under scrutiny after reports linked the Brazil international with a move to Juventus. However, Iraola confirmed that the goalkeeper will stay at Liverpool, adding confidence in the current goalkeeping setup that also includes Giorgi Mamardashvili. “I am very happy with the situation we have right now in the goalkeeping area,” Iraola stated.
The head coach acknowledged, however, that Liverpool face challenges in defensive depth. Right-back Conor Bradley remains sidelined with a serious knee injury sustained in January, ruling him out for several more months. This leaves the club “very thin” in defensive options and suggests that Liverpool may need to pursue reinforcements in that area during the transfer window. Bradley would be first-choice at right-back when fit, but his prolonged absence has heightened the urgency for additional cover.
Iraola, speaking shortly after taking charge, expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming season and the prospect of adding new talent to strengthen the squad. His comments reflect a clear strategy of building around a settled group of players while addressing vulnerabilities exposed by injuries. Liverpool’s early pre-season activities in the United States will be closely watched as the club prepares for a campaign with high expectations.