SerpApi.Org
Andoni Iraola has received backing to "handle the pressure" of leading Liverpool - with the Reds encouraged to recruit additional established quality to support their new head coach, but Florain Wirtz has been tipped to 'reunite' with Xabi Alonso.
Iraola is gearing up for his maiden fixture since replacing the dismissed Arne Slot last month, with the curtain-raiser of the pre-season tour of the United States against Sunderland in Nashville on Saturday evening. The Spaniard recently concluded a three-year spell at the helm of Bournemouth, guiding them to European qualification for the first time in the club's history in May.
Former Middlesbrough midfielder Gaizka Mendieta reckons Iraola possesses the credentials to restore Liverpool as contenders at the summit of the Premier League. "I know Andoni Iraola well, and he can handle the pressure," he said. "He is ready for the challenge at Liverpool.", reports the Liverpool Echo.
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"While you cannot promise trophies, he can quickly bring a clear style of football and identity to the club. His experience in the Premier League has taught him what is required. His approach to the market and his tactical ideas will make Liverpool competitive against Arsenal, Manchester City and Chelsea. He is ready and will deliver."
Iraola has emphasised Liverpool's requirement for a new winger, and Mendieta insists the Reds must secure a proven talent to complement the £34.5million acquisition of Spain World Cup winner Victor Munoz from Osasuna. "Munoz can play on both sides but is better on the left," said Mendieta.
"Liverpool need experienced players rather than someone very young who needs time to develop.
"At a club like Liverpool, you cannot always wait for potential. They need a particular type of experience.
Players like Bradley Barcola, who is 23 and has won the Champions League and league titles with PSG, fit that profile better than a younger player who Iraola would have to teach. ".
Speaking to BetVictor, Mendieta remains certain that Florian Wirtz will eventually link up again with his former Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso during his career, though not necessarily at Alonso's new club Chelsea.
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"When a manager has worked with a player at his best, they often want to reunite," he said.
"It may not happen immediately because Liverpool has a new manager and expectations are high.
"Last season was difficult for both Wirtz and the club. They didn't reach the expected level, so perhaps not this season, but I am sure they will want to reunite in the future.
". "The same applies to Andoni Iraola, he will be looking at the market for players he has previously managed who can succeed in the Premier League. ".
