Earlier this week a video surfaced of Dominik Szoboszlai and Curtis Jones arguing over the captain's armband after Liverpool’s win over Wrexham. The clip shows the trio—alongside Kostas Tsimikas—walking out together, keeping it light with keepy‑uppies and jokes in front05 of cameras. The dispute, tied to Szoboszlai handing the armband to Tsimikas instead of Jones, seemed resolved by Friday, but it highlighted for Iraola that a vice‑captain must be appointed following Andy Robertson’s departure.

Iraola’s training session was intense, with him repeatedly shouting “play in possession” and “quicker, quicker.” Players celebrated goals in mini‑drills, and the atmosphere stayed upbeat. Groups split into a nine‑a‑side match and set‑piece work, with assistants Tommy Elphick and Shaun Cooper involved. Mike Gordon, Fenway Sports Group president, watched closely as Liverpool’s operations resume.

Outside the pitch, Iraola shared a beer with Phil Thompson and Robbie Fowler, showing respect for club legends. With only three weeks before his first Premier League match, Iraola is planting the seeds of his tenure in the Windy City.

The pre‑season narrative remains one of passion, leadership challenges, and a focus on building a cohesive unit under new management.