Bradley Barcola reveals what Andoni Iraola told him before signing for Liverpool, as the forward opens up on the conversations that influenced his move to Anfield
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 9: Andoni Iraola manager / head coach of Liverpool celebrates at full time with Bradley Barcola of Liverpool following the UEFA Champions League 2026/27 League Phase MD1 match between Liverpool FC and Atletico de Madrid at Anfield on September 9, 2026 in Liverpool, United Kingdom. (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images)
Bradley Barcola opened up about what Andoni Iraola told him ahead of his move to Liverpool(Image: Getty Images)
Bradley Barcola has opened up about what Andoni Iraola told him before he completed his move to Liverpool.
Liverpool's interest in Barcola dates back to 2025, when reports first linked the club with the Frenchman following Luis Diaz's departure to Bayern Munich. A move failed to materialise at the time, but the Reds revived their pursuit at the end of last season after Mohamed Salah's exit.
Since completing his big-money switch from PSG to Liverpool, Barcola has made five appearances across all competitions but is still waiting for his first goal or assist. This weekend's clash with Manchester City could provide an ideal opportunity to make an impact, with Iraola set to rely on the forward amid the injury absences of Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo.
Barcola revealed that Iraola wanted him to play out wide, using his pace and attacking ability while also contributing defensively. The forward said the Liverpool boss viewed his direct style as a good fit for the team and made it clear what he expected from him.
Speaking to Sky Sports ahead of the City game, Barcola said: “When I spoke to him before signing, it was about playing out wide, doing what I do best and playing with lots of pace. That’s why he thought I was a good fit for this team.
“He knows I attack a lot but also defend a lot. He told me that’s exactly what he needed from me. I’m very happy and hope to repay his trust on the pitch.”
“I think my playing style suits him well. He likes direct football and that’s what I prefer. Ultimately, it’s up to me to make the difference on the pitch. If I can do that, everything will go well.”
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 12: Andoni Iraola, Manager of Liverpool, speaks to Bradley Barcola during the Premier League 2026/27 match between Liverpool FC and Fulham at Anfield on September 12, 2026 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)
Bradley Barcola says he wants to repay Andoni Iraola's trust(Image: Getty Images)
Iraola also recently dismissed suggestions that Barcola is struggling for form after the forward faced criticism for his recent performances with France.
The 24-year-old came under fire from the French media following Monday's 4-1 Nations League victory over Belgium, having created just one chance and registered two shots. Critics questioned his lack of end product despite France's convincing win. "I don't think he's in a bad moment - the problem with wingers or strikers is if they don't score a goal, 'they haven't played well'," he said.
"We have to see the games, we have to watch. I said it the first game against Atletico Madrid, he missed two or three quite clear chances. I don't care. Honestly. I care but I want him to see (it's) there. With the national team, I have seen he has had a couple of good situations to score; he hasn't scored, but I want him to be there."
Barcola could be called upon to lead the line at center-forward, a position he is not accustomed to playing but one Iraola believes he is capable of filling. "He is a top player for us. I think he can play in any position up front," he added.
"He probably has played more as a left winger but has played a little bit as a striker, has played even more as a right winger. I think he can cover the three positions up front. He's a super valuable player for us."