Iraola on the plan for Wirtz, wingers on both flanks and the importance of Issac

According to Sports.

Context

Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has emphasized the importance of player versatility, which could lead to a more flexible style of play. Wirtz, with his ability to play in a variety of positions, could become an important element in the team's attacking efforts, especially in light of the possible addition of new wingers such as Bradley Barcola.

Why is this important

Andoni Iraola's plans to use Florent Wirtz in a striker role underscore his desire to adapt the team to modern football demands. The versatility of the wingers, as Iraola noted, could be a key factor in Liverpool's success in the coming season, especially with matches against the likes of Leeds United and Wexham coming up.

Key takeaways

• Iraola on the plan for Wirtz, wingers on both flanks and the importance of Issac.
• Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola spoke at a press conference in Chicago about his plans for the pre-season, highlighting the importance of the versatility of the wingers and the role of Alexandre Issac in the upcoming season.
• Iraola on plan for Wirtz, wingers playing on both sides and 'massive' Isak - Yahoo Sports.

Liverpool face Leeds United in Chicago on Sunday (kick-off 21:00 BST) before completing pre-season training on Merseyside. Here are the key points from Reds head coach Andoni Iraola's press conference:

Iraola elaborated on where he sees Florent Wirtz in the team: "We know what he can give us. I think he suits our playing style. I see him probably in a striker role. We know he played for Germany more on the left flank, but I think we will start working with him in that position behind the striker. He is quite versatile as a player."

The manager also commented on the use of Rio Ngumohi on the right flank against Wexham: "I usually try to encourage our wingers to be able to play on both sides. I know some of them are more comfortable on one side, but our team is not always symmetrical. Also in pre-season I need to look at where they feel better, but at my previous clubs most wingers played on both sides."


Iraola also addressed the need for new wingers, such as Paris Saint-Germain's Bradley Barcola, to be able to play on both flanks: "Yes, it's a great quality because you end up being less predictable. It's also good for you because you can get more minutes on the pitch - and better for us because we can use the squad more effectively."

Regarding the importance of Alexandre Issac in the new season, Iraola said: "He came in in good shape. I think he did well at the World Cup - I saw him confident. First training here and I think I saw a good version of Alex. He won't have too long of a pre-season, but I hope he gets three or four weeks of quality training and we can get him in good shape because he will be very important for us this season."

Asked whether the World Cup will influence when fans see the team Iraola wants: “Probably yes, but not because I will meet the players late or we will sign players later. Even with our team ready for pre-season, when there is a change of coach, all of that takes time. I would like to say that on the first day we will be perfect, that everything will be ready, but that is probably not the case. We will need to adapt as quickly as possible.”Regarding the pre-season tour, he added: "I was very pleased when I heard we were coming to Chicago again. I was here last pre-season with Bournemouth. I understand Liverpool's reputation is not the same now as when I came last season, but it was still very nice. I hope we can finish it off properly against Leeds as well. I think we can finish these two weeks well."

What happens next

Liverpool will continue to prepare for the season, and the upcoming match with Leeds United will be an important test for Iraola's new tactical schemes. The manager is expected to experiment with the squad to determine the optimal positions for players such as Wirtz and Ngoumoa before the team returns to Merseyside to complete pre-season.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Iraola say about the plan for Wirtz?

Iraola noted that he sees Wirtz in a role under the striker, although he played on the left flank for Germany.

How does Iraola plan to use wingers in the team?

Iraola stressed that he wants wingers to be able to play on both sides, as this makes the team less predictable.

Why are Iraola considering acquiring new wingers?

Iraola believes that new wingers such as Bradley Barcola can improve the team's effectiveness by playing on both flanks.

What is Alexander Issac's role in the new season?

Iraola noted the importance of Issac for the team in the new season, emphasizing his good qualities.

When will Liverpool meet Leeds United?

Liverpool will face Leeds United in Chicago on Sunday at 21:00 BST.

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