Liverpool: Iraola begins his era with a victory and a new style
Liverpool won their first match under Andoni Iraola 4-2 against Sunderland, showcasing a more direct and aggressive style. Federico Chiesa scored and expressed hope for a fresh start, while Joe Gomez’s early injury raised concerns.
Liverpool: Iraola marks his era with a victory and a new style
A new beginning for Liverpool under Iraola
Liverpool secured their first win under Andoni Iraola by defeating Sunderland 4-2 on July 25, 2026, in Nashville. The Spanish manager, who arrived in June to replace Arne Slot, saw his team take the lead in the 13th minute through Kieran Morrison. The young midfielder finished off a collective move involving McConnell, Ngumoha, and Elliott.
The match turned in the second half. Dominik Szoboszlai equalized with a powerful strike in the 56th minute, before Federico Chiesa and Lewis Koumas sealed the victory late in the game. Sunderland had led 2-1 at halftime, thanks to goals from Eliot Le Fée and Tuterov.
Joe Gomez, captain for the evening, left the field injured in the 10th minute. An incident that concerns the staff, as Liverpool approaches a crucial season.
Chiesa sees a new chapter opening
Federico Chiesa, who scored in the second half, expressed his hope for a fresh start under Iraola. The Italian, who struggled under Slot, had started only one Premier League match last season. He acknowledged that the last-gasp Champions League qualification in May fell short of the club’s ambitions.
Chiesa highlighted that his discussions with Iraola focused solely on tactical aspects. The Basque manager deployed him as a striker against Sunderland, a position that could offer him more opportunities. The Italian international, under contract until 2028, affirmed his determination to establish himself at Liverpool rather than seek a return to Italy.
Gomez’s exit: a cloud on the horizon
The early departure of Joe Gomez cast a shadow over the victory. The defender, replaced by youngster Ifeanyi Ndukwe after an apparent injury, is a cause for concern for a team already weakened in defense. Liverpool, beginning their preseason in the U.S., will have to manage without him in upcoming friendlies.
Reactions and outlook
A Sunderland player, Dan Ballard, praised the stylistic shift under Iraola. According to him, Liverpool adopted a more aggressive pressing game and a vertical approach, contrasting with Slot’s possession-based style. Ballard noted that the team appeared more direct and determined to score quickly.
The attendance of 24,897 in Nashville reflects the excitement surrounding this new era. Liverpool, Premier League champions in 2024-2025, are targeting a more ambitious 2026-2027 season in both the league and the Champions League.
Key Points
- Liverpool win 4-2 against Sunderland in Andoni Iraola’s first match
- Federico Chiesa scores and discusses a fresh start under Iraola
- Joe Gomez injured in the 10th minute, a concern for Liverpool
- Style change: aggressive pressing and vertical play under Iraola
- Liverpool aim for an ambitious 2026-2027 season in the Premier League and Champions League
Sources
- Guardian Sport - "Chiesa wants ‘new chapter’ with Iraola after frustrating time under Slot at Liverpool". (secondary)
- Sky Sports - "Impressive Liverpool beat Sunderland in Iraola's first game in charge". (secondary)
- Sky Sports - "Impressive Liverpool beat Sunderland in Iraola's first game in charge". (secondary)
- Yahoo Sports - "What Sunderland player said about Liverpool on Saturday is a big compliment to Andoni Iraola". (secondary)
Transparency: 4 sources (0 primary, 4 secondary). Verification: July 27, 2026.
Truthyx - July 27, 2026