Liverpool conducted its first public training session under new manager Andoni Iraola at the performance centre of Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire. The session revealed several insights into the team’s preparations as they continue their pre-season schedule.
Dominik Szoboszlai addressed a situation that surfaced earlier in the week when a video showed him and Curtis Jones engaged in a heated exchange following Liverpool’s win over Wrexham. Szoboszlai downplayed the disagreement, stating that all players shared the same objective of supporting the club and each other. By the time of the training session, tensions appeared to have eased, with Szoboszlai, Jones, and Kostas Tsimikas displayed good spirits together, engaging in keepy-uppies and joking in front of cameras. The underlying cause was understood to be related to the assignment of the captain’s armband, which highlighted the need for Iraola to appoint a vice-captain following Andy Robertson’s departure.
Regarding squad availability, record signing Alexander Isak returned to training after missing the trip to New York, where Liverpool defeated Wrexham 1-0. Isak, along with Florian Wirtz and Ryan Gravenberch, are expected to feature on Sunday against Leeds. Jeremy Jacquet, recovering from a shoulder injury sustained in February, participated in gym work but remained a doubt for the weekend despite earlier indications he might play. Joe Gomez, ruled out for the start of the Premier League season, also worked in the gym.
During the session itself, Iraola demonstrated high intensity in his drills, frequently emphasizing possession and pace. The atmosphere remained positive, with players celebrating during small-sided games while Iraola actively provided coaching and positional guidance. The squad later divided into groups, with one completing a nine-a-side match while others focused on set-piece work with assistants Tommy Elphick and Shaun Cooper. Mike Gordon, president of Fenway Sports Group, observed the session and is expected to attend Sunday’s match at Soldier Field. Following Thursday’s training dinner, Iraola spent time with club legends Phil Thompson and Robbie Fowler, discussing the upcoming season and personal matters.
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