Szoboszlai reveals the big difference that Andoni Iraola has already brought to
According to Sports.
Context
Dominik Szoboszlai, one of Liverpool's key players, expressed his satisfaction with Iraola's approach, which aims to regain the aggression and pressure that characterized the team. The change of coach could be a turning point for Liverpool as they look to improve their performance after last season.
Why this matters
The restoration of intensity at Liverpool under the leadership of Andoni Iraola is crucial for the team, especially after a disappointing season. The ability to press and win possession back is key to success in Premier League football, and Szoboszlai highlights that this change in mentality could be what the team needs to compete at the highest level again.
Main conclusions
- Szoboszlai reveals the big difference that Andoni Iraola has already brought to the game.
- Dominik Szoboszlai assures that Andoni Iraola has returned the intensity to Liverpool, pointing out the Spaniard's priority in regaining his rhythm, aggression and pressure after a season below expectations.
- Liverpool star reveals one major difference Andoni Iraola has already made at Liverpool.
Dominik Szoboszlai put into words what many fans at Anfield were eager to hear: the intensity is back at Liverpool under Andoni Iraola. In the middle of a pre-season tour of the United States, the midfielder
The first signs in the field help to compose the portrait. Liverpool recorded two victories in the first tests: 1-0 against Wrexham and 4-2 against Sunderland. More than the results, what stands out is the change in habits and the competitive demand that Iraola has tried to instill since day one. The focus is on recovering the club's handball under pressure: competing for second balls, accelerating the game vertically, disturbing the opponent and imposing a constant high pace.
The need for a reset was evident after the break in 2025/26, even though the 2024/25 title, then with Arne Slot, remains an isolated achievement. Football does not live on past credit and the diagnosis was clear: there was a lack of bite. Iraola was hired precisely to reactivate the common thread that has always defined the best Liverpool — a sharp, hostile and intentional team, capable of conditioning without the ball and hurting quickly when they recover it.
Szoboszlai's words have increased weight as they come from a player who thrives on rhythm and transition. In a Liverpool that presses high, steals and releases in a few touches, the Hungarian international gains meters of influence, appearing more often between the lines and in the finishing zone. Still, there are dossiers that have not been closed until the end of the market. On the right flank, doubts persist, the defensive depth seems short and the squad still lacks an indisputable solution as a midfielder from scratch. The possibility of adding quality remains on the table — Bradley Barcola is a name being talked about —, but there is no guarantee that Iraola will receive all the desired profiles by September.
The Spanish coach, however, can now demand structure, intensity and collective conviction — non-negotiable in his model. The first serious test comes at St. James’ Park, against a Newcastle currently without a coach. At the beginning of August, no one should expect a finished product, but it is legitimate to ask for a recognizable identity: committed pressure, fast transitions and vertical intention. Fans tolerate pre-season imperfections; What they will not accept is passivity. If Liverpool compete hard, attack space and regain that old competitive edge, they will look like Liverpool again. And, from what Szoboszlai says, this pattern has already been reintroduced into Melwood's daily life.
What happens next
With two wins in pre-season, Liverpool appear to be finding their rhythm, but the real test will come when the team face more challenging opponents in the Premier League. The expectation is that Iraola will continue to implement his playing philosophy, which could have a significant impact on the way the team performs throughout the season.
Frequently asked questions
What was the result of the game between Liverpool and Sunderland?
Liverpool beat Sunderland 4-2.
How does the victory over Sunderland impact Liverpool's standings?
The victory contributes to a good start to the season and reinforces the change in competitive habits under the new coach.
Who is Liverpool's new manager?
Liverpool's new coach is Andoni Iraola.
What's Liverpool's next match?
Liverpool's next match was not mentioned in the article.
What did Dominik Szoboszlai say about the team's intensity?
Szoboszlai said the intensity Liverpool needed is back under Andoni Iraola.