How Andoni Iraola is Redesigning Liverpool’s Attack After Mohamed Salah
Liverpool’s manager Andoni Iraola is reshaping the team’s attack following the departure of Mohamed Salah. Instead of seeking a direct replacement on the right wing, Iraola is placing the main scoring responsibility on new signing Bradley Barcola, who will operate from the left side.
Adjusting to Life Without Salah
Since Salah left Liverpool just over two months ago, the club has been adapting to his absence. The new tactical plan aims to fill that gap by shifting their attacking focus to the opposite flank. Barcola, brought in from Paris Saint-Germain at a significant cost, had a strong previous season with 13 goals and seven assists. Though right-footed, he prefers cutting inside from the left wing, essentially reversing the role Salah played before.
Managing the Right Wing Challenge
This adjustment creates a challenge on Liverpool’s right side. The team currently has four players who usually play on the left but no natural right wingers after the summer transfer window closed. Young prospect Rio Ngumoha struggled in his recent appearance on the right against Newcastle, and Cody Gakpo showed limited impact against Nottingham Forest. Iraola sees promise in new recruit Víctor Munoz, who has experience on both wings.
"Víctor has played more games on the left in his career but has maybe been even better on the right," Iraola said before Liverpool's match against Ipswich Town.
Developing Young Talent
Iraola is also committed to helping Ngumoha grow into the right-wing role despite initial struggles. He emphasized that the youngster’s versatility could provide valuable options in the future.
"We know Rio can play on the left and showed his qualities. He needs to develop on the right so it gives him more options to play. He is so young. Because he wasn’t incredible in the first game on the right, we can’t say he will never play there again," Iraola explained.
Tactical Setup Aimed at Supporting Alexander Isak
Liverpool will put this new formation to the test when they face Ipswich Town in the Premier League. Finding the right balance quickly is key to keeping the offense sharp. A more traditional winger on the right could improve service to striker Alexander Isak, who excels as a strong presence in the penalty area and relies on accurate delivery to score.
Cody Gakpo remains an important figure in the squad despite interest from clubs like Manchester City and Tottenham. He will continue to compete for playing time during this evolving tactical phase.
- Premier League Match: Ipswich Town vs Liverpool
- Date: 4 September 2026
- Kickoff: 21:00
