Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola is poised to include new signing Bradley Barcola in the squad for the team's upcoming match against Ipswich Town on Friday. The 23-year-old winger, who joined Liverpool for a substantial fee of £123 million from Paris Saint-Germain, is expected to make an immediate impact after a summer filled with speculation surrounding his transfer.
Barcola's departure from PSG had been anticipated, particularly as he had not featured in any matchday squad this season and had not played a single minute during the pre-season. However, Iraola has expressed confidence in Barcola's readiness, stating that the player is in a “good place” and could potentially start at Portman Road. This match is crucial for Iraola, who is still seeking his first victory as Liverpool's manager after two draws against Newcastle and Nottingham Forest.
During a recent press conference, Iraola praised Barcola's commitment to joining Liverpool, emphasizing that the player was a top priority for the club. “We are very happy with Bradley. He was our priority, let’s say, to sign a very very good player in that position,” Iraola remarked. He noted that Barcola has shown a strong desire to contribute to the team and has trained well since his arrival.
Iraola acknowledged that while Barcola has not had pre-season minutes, he has been training normally with the squad and could be a valuable asset in the match against Ipswich. “That’s a decision we have to make. I think he’s in a good place but we have to consider that he hasn’t had the minutes,” he added, indicating that the final decision on Barcola's participation would depend on his performance in training leading up to the match.
The signing of Barcola rounds off a busy transfer window for Liverpool, which also saw the arrivals of Jeremy Jacquet, Victor Munoz, and Ronald Araujo on loan. Despite some criticism regarding the club's need for additional defensive midfielders and a right-back, Iraola expressed satisfaction with the club's transfer strategy, particularly in enhancing their wing options. This could open the door for young talent Rio Ngumoha as well.
In addition to discussing Barcola, Iraola also addressed the situation regarding Cody Gakpo, who was the subject of interest from Manchester City late in the transfer window. Iraola confirmed that Liverpool had successfully rebuffed the approach, stating, “Cody is a very smart player. My relationship with him has been honest since the beginning.” Gakpo has been a standout performer in pre-season and the early part of the season, contributing significantly with goals and assists.
As Liverpool prepares for their fixture against Ipswich, the inclusion of Barcola could be a pivotal moment for the team as they look to secure their first win of the season and build momentum in the league.
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