REUTERS/Scott Heppell
The Andoni Iraola is officially underway at Liverpool after a 2-2 Premier League draw against Newcastle United on Sunday.
Replacing Arne Slot after his contract at Bournemouth expired, the Spanish coach has plenty of work to do if he's to turn last season's fifth-placed side into title contenders again. Falling behind inside the opening five minutes proved just how much work the Reds have to do.
Anthony Elanga's lightning speed made the most of Liverpool's defensive frailties to break free and slot past Alisson. Cody Gakpo and a Dominik Szoboszlai penalty rescued a point, while Joe Willock's goal highlighted even more Liverpool issues.
Attention will be focused on the transfer market, with the window closing next week. Bradley Barcola and Yankuba Minteh have been heavily linked with moves to Anfield. Meanwhile, it appears some existing members of the squad will need to look for moves elsewhere.
Iraola Decision the Final Nail in the Coffin for Liverpool Ace
REUTERS/Phil Noble via Action Images
With squad depth issues concerning supporters, there weren't many established senior names on the Liverpool bench for the trip to St James' Park. Wataru Endo, Kostas Tsimikas and Alexis Mac Allister aside, all other substitutes were new to the Premier League or youngsters.
Federico Chiesa missed out after picking up a slight knock in training. But the most notable omission may have been Harvey Elliott. The attacking midfielder endured a nightmare season-long loan at Aston Villa last term, only playing nine games.
Andoni Iraola with his hand on his mouth
Andoni Iraola with his hand on his mouth
The 23-year-old then struggled to make a positive impression in pre-season, and now appears to be behind Lewis Koumas in the pecking order. Elliott's physique was questioned when he returned to Liverpool this summer, with many questioning whether he'd suit an Iraola system.
The ex-Bournemouth head coach demands plenty of running from his players, contributing to the high-intensity style of play. It appears Iraola himself isn't convinced by Elliott, who wasn't even in the matchday squad despite no reported injury.
Elliott Made Telling Comments About Liverpool Future
Action Images via Reuters/Jason Cairnduff
Elliott was a boyhood Liverpool fan and joined the Reds with big expectations from Fulham in 2019. Jurgen Klopp even claimed his 'biggest mistake' was not giving the versatile midfielder more game time during his reign in charge.
While he would've hoped to make it at the club he's supported his whole life, the sad reality appears to be hitting home that his future may lie elsewhere. He left Anfield last summer with the expectation that Villa would have to trigger the clause to buy him permanently this year.
Things didn't work out that way and it appears he is now surplus to requirements under the new boss. Speaking on Liverpool's pre-season tour, Elliott said (per Liverpool.com): "I'm still wanting to be selfish, doing what's right for me.
"Whether that's staying here and fighting for my place or potentially going elsewhere, I'm still unsure at the moment until I get some more intel."
So he's admitted that he might have to leave the Merseysiders to get the playing time he desires. That looks like the most likely course of action. It would also clear his £65,000-per-week salary off the books for the club.
Statistics in this article are courtesy of Transfermarkt. Correct as of 24-08-26.