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Iraola: Liverpool Have Quality to Develop as Barcola Nears Debut
LIVERPOOL — Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola says he is satisfied with the quality available in his squad as new signing Bradley Barcola prepares for a...
By Wavers Multimedia
Iraola spoke ahead of Liverpool’s Premier League trip to Ipswich on Friday, with Barcola now available for selection following his £123 million transfer from Paris Saint-Germain.
Barcola Trains With New Teammates
Barcola has trained with his new Liverpool teammates this week and could feature for the club for the first time.
However, Iraola said the French international’s limited pre-season preparation would be taken into consideration before deciding whether to put him in the squad or start him.
The manager said he is now focused on developing the players already at his disposal after Liverpool completed their major transfer business.
“I’m happy now. I have a lot of quality in the team. Now it is the moment for me and the players to develop what we have,” Iraola said.
Liverpool Opt Against More Signings
Liverpool decided not to make additional additions at right-back and in central midfield before the transfer window closed.
Iraola explained that the club considered other possibilities but ultimately rejected some options for sporting or financial reasons.
The Spanish coach also defended Liverpool’s decision not to directly replace Curtis Jones after the midfielder completed a £30 million move to Inter Milan, insisting that the squad still has sufficient numbers in midfield.
Iraola Welcomes Gakpo Stay
The Liverpool boss also expressed his satisfaction that Cody Gakpo remained at Anfield despite reported interest from Manchester City.
City had an £80 million bid for the Netherlands international rejected, with Iraola describing Gakpo as an important player for the team.
“I am glad to keep Cody because he is a valuable player,” he said.
Liverpool Seek First League Win
Iraola is still waiting for his first Premier League victory as Liverpool manager after his side opened the campaign with consecutive 2-2 draws against Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest.
The visit to promoted Ipswich presents another opportunity for Liverpool to secure their first league win under their new manager, while Barcola could make his long-awaited first appearance for the club.