As the 2026/2027 Premier League season kicks off, all eyes are on Andoni Iraola's Liverpool side, particularly his starting XI. With a substantial transfer budget and a host of new signings, Iraola faces the challenge of assembling a cohesive team that can compete from the get-go. Here's my take on what his dream XI might look like, along with some personal commentary and analysis.
A New Look at the Back Four
One of the most intriguing aspects of Iraola's team will be the back four. While Alisson is expected to remain in goal for one more season, the defense is set for a major overhaul. The young Giovanni Leoni, recovering from an ACL injury, will push for a starting spot. However, it's the French center-back Jeremy Jacquet who will partner Virgil Van Dijk in the heart of defense. Jacquet's £60m move from Rennes makes him a key player, and his partnership with Van Dijk could be a solid foundation for the team.
At right-back, Conor Bradley returns from injury, but the Reds might also look to strengthen with a player like Porto's Alberto Costa. Costa, with his budget-friendly fee and impressive assists, could offer stern competition to Jeremie Frimpong. On the left, Milos Kerkez will drop in, benefiting from his time with Iraola at Bournemouth. This back four promises to be dynamic and versatile, a far cry from the defense that shipped goals last season.
Midfield Conundrum and Ideal No. 6
The midfield is where things get interesting. While the Reds have been linked with several players, Iraola already has an ideal No. 6 in Ryan Gravenberch. Gravenberch, who had an off-season but impressed at the World Cup, will fit in alongside Dominik Szoboszlai and Florian Wirtz, who have the license to roam. Alexis Mac Allister, if he stays, might settle for a place on the bench. This midfield trio, with Gravenberch's return to form, could be a game-changer, providing both control and creativity.
An Introduction of Pace
Up front, the deadly duo of Hugo Ekitke and Alexander Isak is yet to ignite due to injuries. Isak, with a price tag of £125m, will be expected to lead the line. To his side, Yan Diomande, who cost around £85m from RB Leipzig, and Victor Munoz will bring pace and versatility to the attack. The departure of Mohamed Salah means the Reds sorely lacked pace on the flanks, and these two signings will give Iraola the energy and adaptability he needs.
Personal Perspective
What makes this team particularly fascinating is the blend of youth and experience. While the back four and midfield are filled with young talent, the front three bring a wealth of experience and skill. This balance could be key to Iraola's success, as he looks to inject new life into the team while also building for the future. The challenge will be to integrate these new signings seamlessly and create a cohesive unit that can compete from the opening weekend.
In my opinion, Iraola's dream XI is a mix of bold moves and strategic signings. It's a team that promises excitement and potential, but also one that will need time to gel. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether this side can live up to the hype and challenge for titles. From my perspective, the key will be in the midfield, where Gravenberch's return to form could be the linchpin that holds everything together.
