Barcola could make Liverpool debut as Iraola demands first win

Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola says new signing Bradley Barcola could be available for his debut against Ipswich Town on Friday, with the Reds still waiting for their first Premier League victory of the season.

Barcola completed his move from Paris Saint-Germain earlier this week and has made a strong early impression on Iraola, who said the French forward had shown the right attitude since arriving at Liverpool.

The 2-2 draws with Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest have left Liverpool with two points from their opening two matches. On both occasions, they needed late goals to avoid defeat, with Dominik Szoboszlai scoring against Newcastle United before fellow summer arrival Victor Munoz rescued a point against Nottingham Forest.

Barcola’s arrival gives Iraola another attacking option as Liverpool attempt to turn possession and promising performances into their first win of the campaign. The 22-year-old could be involved at Portman Road, although his lack of pre-season match minutes means a starting place is not guaranteed.

“We are very happy with Bradley. It was our priority to sign a very, very good player in those positions,” Iraola said.

“He has also come with the right mentality. I like that he wanted Liverpool a lot. He wanted to come here. It’s a good first sign.

“Being the player he is, he has come with the willingness to help us. He is playing well for us and, if everything goes well in training today, he will definitely be available for us tomorrow.”

Iraola was also pleased that forward Cody Gakpo remained at Liverpool after being linked with a move to Manchester City during the transfer window.

The manager said he had kept communication with Gakpo open while the uncertainty over the Netherlands international’s future continued.

“My relationship with Cody has been very honest from the beginning,” he said. “He has played very well for us so far.

“He was always aware of the situation in the market. We were constantly talking. I hope we can keep him at the same level.

“He is in a good place physically and mentally, and I’m very happy to pick him.”

However, Iraola stressed that Barcola’s involvement would depend on both his condition and the manager’s assessment before kick-off.

“I see him in a good place. He has trained for us, it’s true he hasn’t had minutes in pre-season,” he said.

“He has been training, and it’s a decision we have to make. But we have to consider he hasn’t had minutes in pre-season games.”

Liverpool seeking a response

Liverpool’s failure to win either of their first two league matches has frustrated Iraola, but he believes the squad can now focus fully on football following the closure of the transfer window.

“Definitely. If you don’t win, you are frustrated. It’s only two games, but we need to win,” he said.

“I’m much more comfortable now the market is closed, and we know who we are. We have to perform and do our job.”

Ipswich will provide a stern test despite Liverpool being regarded as the favourites. The hosts have already demonstrated their ability to perform in front of their own supporters, and Iraola warned his players not to underestimate them.

“Ipswich are a team that won their first game at home. Even the other day, in the first half, they were the better team until United got the 2-1 and the game went open,” he said.

“We have to be ready and give our best.”

Liverpool may also need to find a solution at right-back. Conor Bradley remains unavailable, while Jeremie Frimpong has faced criticism for his performances.

Iraola indicated that Szoboszlai could be used in the position if required, highlighting the importance of having players who can operate in more than one role.

“The challenge in the squad now is we don’t have Conor there at right-back. That’s why I value Dom at right-back as he can play there,” he said.

“Versatility in the player helps us go through the moments when we have injuries.

“In midfield we have good numbers. Now it’s a matter of getting the right calls from myself. I’m finding now the best combinations.”

Liverpool won both of their Premier League meetings with Ipswich during the 2024/25 season. They recorded a 2-0 victory at Portman Road before completing a 4-1 win at Anfield.