IRAOLA: “YOU ASK ME BASICALLY EVERY DAY ABOUT WIRTZ!” | Liverpool v Villarreal | Champions League Preview
The Anfield Index PodcastShow Notes
Pre-match press conference with Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola ahead of Liverpool v Villarreal in the Champions League. Iraola addresses the scrutiny surrounding Florian Wirtz and assesses his recent performances, alongside updates on the injuries to Dominik Szoboszlai and Jeremie Frimpong and the return of Ryan Gravenberch. He discusses Liverpool’s home form, selection and recovery during a busy schedule, plus the contributions of Víctor Muñoz and Ronald Araújo. Iraola also previews a reunion with Villarreal coach Iñigo Pérez, recalls the work-permit problems that prevented his former assistant joining Bournemouth and reflects on his first ten matches as Liverpool manager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
More from The Anfield Index Podcast
Trev Downey and Dave Davis take a deep dive into Liverpool's long-term squad planning and the major decisions facing returning sporting director Julian Ward. With January approaching, could Alex Scott or Lamine Camara transform Andoni Iraola's midfield, and what does that mean for Alexis Mac Allister, Ryan Gravenberch and the emerging Trey Nyoni? The discussion also turns to Virgil van Dijk's future, why Liverpool's transfer ambitions could determine whether the captain signs a new contract, and growing concerns that Alisson Becker could be approaching the end of his Anfield career. Could Liverpool even be preparing to sign another first-choice goalkeeper?
Trev Downey and Dave Davis examine Liverpool's biggest priorities for returning sporting director Julian Ward, with Rio Ngumoha's future firmly at the top of the agenda. Following the 18-year-old's remarkable performances, including his devastating display against Villarreal, the pair analyse his extraordinary dribbling statistics and explain why securing his long-term future is becoming increasingly urgent. With Arsenal, Bayern Munich and Europe's elite watching closely, can Liverpool afford to delay?
Dave looks at the news & gossip as Bukayo Saka picked up an injury v Bayern. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Dave looks at the Champions League action from Wednesday with Man United battered by Como, some other big games between the favourites. He then looks at the Europa action, before answering questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Dave Hendrick looks at reports of a upcoming decision on the return of Ndukwe with the young CB potentially returning in January.