Liverpool take on Atletico Madrid in the Champions League at Anfield on Wednesday night
Andoni Iraola (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)
Andoni Iraola (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)
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Andoni Iraola has heard all about European nights at Anfield, and now he can't wait to experience one.
The Reds boss says he's been constantly asked about how it'll feel to take charge of Liverpool under the Anfield floodlights in a Champions League game since he replaced Arne Slot in the summer, and now he'll finally get to do it in what is also his first match in European football's premier competition as a manager.
Writing in the match programme for Wednesday night's clash with Atletico Madrid, Iraola said: “One of the questions I have been asked most since coming to Liverpool is how much I am looking forward to my first European night at Anfield.
“It is one of those questions that does not really require too much of a response because this is the kind of occasion that speaks for itself.
“The way I look at it is simple – this is a tradition and an experience that we have to embrace. It is not something that we can just expect to happen. Maybe there are elements that we can take for granted; the darkness, the floodlights, the time of day and so on. But the rest has to be created on the night itself – by people and by passion.
“This is our responsibility. We know what the legacy of this club is and we know the impact it can have, so we have to use this knowledge to inspire us."
While Iraola is new to the Champions League, Atletico boss Diego Simeone is a seasoned veteran and two-time finalist.
“Of course, this is only our first game in this season’s Champions League so the tension that comes with the finishing line coming into view in the league phase will not be there just yet," continued Iraola.
"But the reality is that in a competition like this one where the standards are so high, there is risk and there is jeopardy from the very first minute.
“The points that are at stake in game one are just as valuable as the ones that are available in the final round of fixtures. That is why getting off to a positive start is so important, especially as we are starting with a game against a team which has established itself as one of the strongest and most competitive in Europe under Diego Simeone.
“This would be a big game at any stage. It does not need to be a particular round, as all of the ingredients are in place for a proper contest and a big test. Liverpool versus Atletico Madrid means something and I have no doubt this will show on the pitch.”
Iraola's captain Virgil van Dijk is also acutely aware of the test that awaits the Reds.
Writing to fans in his own programme notes, the Reds skipper said: “The Champions League is a competition that everyone involved with this club holds dearly, and we can’t wait to get our campaign under way this evening.
“When you play for Liverpool, these are the nights you live for, challenging yourself against the best teams and the best players. It is a privilege that must never be taken for granted.
“I know you guys know that, and I know that Anfield will be rocking as usual tonight. I’m looking forward to seeing and hearing you all."
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