New Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola has made it clear that he would like Curtis Jones to stay put this summer, amid doubts over his Reds future.
Iraola produced an impressive first press conference on Monday, discussing a host of different subjects, including what it means to be in charge of one of the biggest clubs in the world:
“Yeah, I want to think I understand. Probably until you are not here and until I don’t go through certain experiences, I will not fully know. But I’m here to experience those situations. I’m ready for it. I understand this is a massive club. Everything that I’m going to say now, it’s going to go to big scrutiny. You have to be very aware of the mistakes but I wouldn’t like also to be too careful. I would like to act quite normal.
“I’m not going to live in my bubble – just training ground, home. I would also like to go to the city, experience the city. I know some places I will have to take some pictures. But it’s part also of the magic of being the Liverpool manager and I would not like to change too much.”
Another important topic was the future of Jones, with Inter Milan continually linked with a move for him, but Iraola stressed the importance of keeping him [via journalist Paul Gorst on X]:
“I rate Curtis very highly. For me he is a great player. It’s very important he’s Scouse, that he’s from here. I also like the personality. I hope we can keep him, not only for this year, more time.”
Will Curtis Jones listen to Andoni Iraola’s words?
It will be interesting to see how Jones reacts to Iraola’s comments, with the Spaniard making it very clear how much he values him as a player, potentially giving him a key role.
The midfielder’s reason for leaving would likely be to earn more regular minutes, but if Iraola can promise him that, it could change his thinking regarding his future.
It would be sad to see another homegrown Liverpool player depart so soon after Trent Alexander-Arnold, but hopefully, Jones will realise what a good thing he has at Anfield, having been called “complete” by Arne Slot in the past.
Hearing Iraola discuss the importance of having a local figure in the squad is also refreshing, and he could be the man to get the very best out of Jones as he comes into his peak years.