Liverpool are preparing for their first UEFA Champions League game of the new season as they take on Atletico Madrid at Anfield tomorrow.
The Reds have two wins and a draw from three Premier League games so far, but Andoni Iraola’s style of play is already starting to reap rewards.
The players look fitter and are more intense, as opposed to what was the case under Arne Slot last season.
And now, ahead of taking on Diego Simeone’s side, Iraola has said he wants his team to be more intense, which will come as music to the ears of the Liverpool faithful.
Andoni Iraola on Liverpool’s playing style
“We have to be as intense as possible, as we are better like this,” said the Spaniard when asked how he wants his team to play this season.
“I don’t want my players to think they have another game coming up; I don’t want them to have a calculator and think they have some games coming up.
🚨 Andoni Iraola on intensity:
“We have to be AS INTENSE AS POSSIBLE as we are better like this. I don't want my players to think they have another game coming up, I don't want them to have a calculator and think they have some games coming up. We want us to get used to playing… pic.twitter.com/ygxl10yAyI
— AS1 (@TransferSector) September 8, 2026
“We want us to get used to playing at a higher rhythm and the only way is pushing.”
To be fair to Arne, he did win the league and will have our respect forever. Iraola’s brand of football, however, is certainly closer to Jurgen Klopp’s heavy metal philosophy, so the Anfield faithful have a lot to be excited about.
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Andoni Iraola drops big Bradley Barcola hint ahead of Liverpool vs Atletico Madrid
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