Steven Gerrard Urges Liverpool to Give Andoni Iraola Time to Build Title Team
Steven Gerrard has called on Liverpool to give new manager Andoni Iraola time to build a side capable of winning the title.
What we know
- Gerrard believes Iraola earned the Anfield job after his work at Bournemouth, praising the Spaniard’s football, results and clear playing identity.
- He warned that the Liverpool role brings far greater pressure and a firm expectation of trophies.
- Gerrard said Iraola has a talented group but needs patience to reshape it into “winners again”.
- Cody Gakpo remained at Liverpool when the summer transfer window shut despite interest from Manchester City and Tottenham.
- Gerrard described Gakpo’s retention as crucial after Hugo Ekitike suffered an Achilles injury in the second half of last season, leaving Alexander Isak as the club’s only recognised No.9.
- Gakpo has had a strong World Cup and pre-season, then began the new campaign in sharp form, although he is currently managing a minor fitness issue.
Next step: Liverpool wait on Gakpo fitness
Liverpool will assess Gakpo’s niggle ahead of their next fixtures. Gerrard said the Dutch forward will be needed, particularly with Ekitike unavailable and limited options through the middle.
He added that Gakpo can become a major contributor if he sustains his form across the full campaign. Gerrard also remains optimistic that Iraola has the players required to develop a title-challenging team, provided the new head coach is given time to make it work.
