Iraola Praises Barcola as Liverpool Debut Approaches

Bradley Barcola has barely unpacked his bags, but his Liverpool career could start as early as Friday night.

The French winger, a two-time Champions League winner, completed his move from Paris Saint-Germain on Monday and has already trained with his new teammates ahead of the Reds’ Premier League opener at Portman Road.

Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola made no attempt to hide how significant he considers the signing.

“We are very happy with Bradley. It was our priority, let’s say, to sign a very, very good player in that position,” he told reporters on Thursday morning.

Barcola’s pedigree is obvious. So is his attitude, according to Iraola, who underlined that the 21-year-old pushed hard to make the move happen.

“I think he has come also with the right mentality. I’ve liked from him that he wanted Liverpool a lot. He just wanted to come here and I think that’s a good first sign.

“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. I’m very happy with him.”

Barcola has now taken part in three training sessions with the squad and, fitness permitting, will be in the matchday group on Friday.

“He trained well with us. If everything goes well in today’s training also, he will definitely be available for tomorrow, yes,” Iraola confirmed.

The real dilemma is whether “available” means from the start or from the bench. Asked directly if Barcola is ready to start, Iraola paused on the decision.

“It’s a good question, it’s a good question,” he said. “I see him in a good place. He has trained with us in three trainings. It’s true that he hasn’t had minutes in pre-season but he has been training normal with the group. Then it’s a decision we have to make.

“I think he’s in a good place but we also have to consider that he hasn’t had the minutes in the pre-season games.”

Liverpool travel to Portman Road knowing all eyes will search for the club’s new No. — and whether Iraola throws his Champions League winner straight into the Premier League’s opening-night spotlight.