Iraola begins Liverpool role with squad calls and vice-captain choice
What’s next: Liverpool must decide on reinforcements and a new deputy captain after Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson left.
Andoni Iraola used his first week as Liverpool head coach to set expectations for a demanding rebuild, saying he must prove he belongs at Anfield while assessing the squad in preseason. The former Bournemouth manager told reporters he expects challenges, including replacing important departures and dealing with injuries, but said Liverpool still have a strong group. BBC Sport reported Iraola also wants more signings, with transfer work likely to accelerate as the World Cup concludes. One immediate call is naming a vice-captain. Dominik Szoboszlai, who signed a five-year deal, said he is ready if chosen after Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson left.