Andoni Iraola’s New Approach to Liverpool’s Attack Post-Mohamed Salah
Since Mohamed Salah left Liverpool, manager Andoni Iraola is reshaping the team’s attack by shifting the main scoring focus to new signing Bradley Barcola, who now leads the offensive charge from the left side.
A Fresh Direction on the Left Flank
More than two months after Salah’s departure, Liverpool are still settling into a new era without their iconic forward. Instead of searching for a like-for-like replacement on the right wing, the club has chosen to change their attacking balance. Barcola, signed from Paris Saint-Germain in one of Liverpool’s costliest deals, is expected to fill that gap. Last season, Barcola impressed with 13 goals and seven assists, excelling as a right-footed player who cuts inside from the left — essentially flipping Salah’s old role.
The Challenge on the Right Wing
With Barcola commanding the left, Liverpool face questions about who will take charge on the right. The squad currently has four left wingers but lacks natural players on the right following the close of the transfer window. Teenage prospect Rio Ngumoha struggled in his right-wing role against Newcastle, and Cody Gakpo showed only slight improvements versus Nottingham Forest. Yet, Iraola sees hope in newcomer Víctor Munoz.
"Víctor has played more on the left in his career but might have been even better on the right," Iraola said ahead of Liverpool’s match against Ipswich Town.
Belief in Young Talent
Iraola remains committed to developing Ngumoha on the right wing despite early difficulties. The manager trusts that experience will help the teenager adapt and broaden his playing options.
"We know Rio can play on the left and showed his qualities," Iraola noted. "He needs to develop on the right so it gives him more options. He is very young. Because he wasn’t incredible in the first game on the right, we can’t say he will never play there again."
Preparing for Ipswich and Supporting Isak
Liverpool will put this evolving system to the test in their upcoming Premier League match against Ipswich Town. Iraola must quickly find the right combination to keep the attack dangerous. A more traditional winger on the right could provide valuable service for striker Alexander Isak. The Swedish forward thrives as a strong presence inside the penalty area and depends on accurate crosses to score.
Cody Gakpo remains an important figure for the squad, despite recent transfer interest from Manchester City and Tottenham. He will continue competing for playing time as Liverpool adapt to this fresh tactical phase.
- Upcoming Match: Ipswich Town vs Liverpool
- Date & Time: 4 September 2026, 21:00
- Competition: Premier League
