It is always difficult to know what to make of pre‑season and how much of it is worth reading into before the real stuff begins. Andoni Iraola delivered his first press conference at the AXA Training Centre, insisting Liverpool need more signings as the World Cup concludes.

A key decision this week is appointing a vice‑captain. With Virgil van Dijk’s contract ending next summer, the club must decide who will step up. Dominik Szoboszlai has signed a five‑year deal and, after captaining Hungary, is a strong candidate.

At the Kirkby training base, players undergo tests and intensive sessions. Iraola watches closely, often shouting "bravo" when he sees something he likes. The squad returns in "good nick" and the fitness test focuses on high‑intensity changes of direction.

Liverpool will soon head to Chicago for a pre‑season tour that also includes Nashville and New York, giving Iraola an expanded group to work with and a chance to shape the team’s future.