Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has expressed his satisfaction with the arrival of Bradley Barcola, highlighting the forward’s “right mentality” following his high-profile move from Paris Saint-Germain. The 24-year-old French international completed his transfer on Monday for a fee reaching £124 million ($167 million), making him the second-most expensive signing in the club’s history, trailing only the £125 million paid for Alexander Isak last year.
Iraola, who took over at Anfield following the departure of Arne Slot, identified the left-winger as a primary target during the summer window. “It was our priority to sign a very, very good player in that position,” the Spaniard explained. He noted that Barcola’s clear desire to join the Premier League side was a positive indicator of his commitment to the project.
Regarding the player’s immediate availability, Iraola confirmed that Barcola has integrated well in training. Provided he completes the latest session without issue, he is expected to be in the squad for the upcoming match at Portman Road against Ipswich. However, the manager cautioned that a final decision on whether the forward will start remains pending, noting that Barcola lacks match fitness from the pre-season period.
The addition of Barcola bolsters an attacking lineup that already features Isak, Hugo Ekitike, and Florian Wirtz. This influx of talent had sparked speculation regarding the future of Cody Gakpo, but Iraola moved to dismiss those concerns, labeling the Dutchman a “very valuable player” whom he is pleased to retain.
Reflecting on the conclusion of the transfer window, Iraola expressed relief that the period of uncertainty has ended. Alongside Barcola, the club secured the signatures of Jeremy Jacquet and Victor Munoz. The manager emphasized that these acquisitions were strategically chosen to strengthen the squad’s overall position.
Iraola acknowledged that while other potential deals were explored, the club opted against them for various reasons. “There were other options that we decided not to take for different reasons,” he stated. “Sometimes it’s sporting reasons because they don’t improve what you have, or it’s because of economic reasons where it didn’t make sense in terms of the market to do those movements.”
With his squad now finalized, the former Bournemouth boss is focused on the season ahead. Having recorded two draws in his opening Premier League fixtures, Iraola is eager to shift his attention toward development. “I’m happy now that I know what we have. I have a lot of quality in the team. Now is the moment for us, for the players, for me, to develop what we have,” he concluded. The report also notes that and I think he has come also with the right mentality. The report also notes that and being the player that he is and the things that he has won recently, I think he has come also with the willingness to help us. The report also notes that also he will definitely be available for tomorrow, if everything goes well in today’s training.
