Barcola arrival gives Liverpool a boost as Iraola targets first league win

Liverpool can finally turn from transfer business to the task of winning. Manager Andoni Iraola said the closed window had clarified his squad as the team prepares to visit promoted Ipswich Town on Friday.

Liverpool began the campaign with a 2-2 draw at Newcastle United and then surrendered another two-goal draw against Nottingham Forest at Anfield. Iraola acknowledged the frustration of starting with two points from two matches. “We need a win, we are frustrated at this part of the job. It's just the first two games but I want to win,” he told reporters.

The manager said Bradley Barcola, signed from Paris Saint-Germain this week, had trained well and was settling into the group. The France forward did not play during preseason, however, and Iraola said that would influence how quickly he enters the team. Barcola’s ability to operate on either flank could give Liverpool more options in attack.

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We need a win, we are frustrated at this part of the job. It's just the first two games but I want to win.

Iraola also welcomed the end of uncertainty around Cody Gakpo, who had been linked with a move during the window. “I am glad to keep Cody because he is a valuable player,” he said, praising the Netherlands forward’s attitude while the situation remained unresolved.

The manager said Liverpool had declined other potential deals when their sporting or financial terms did not make sense. Joe Gomez should return to training next week, while Giovanni Leoni could rejoin the squad during the international break. Conor Bradley and Hugo Ekitike are expected to spend longer on the sidelines.

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I am glad to keep Cody because he is a valuable player.