The problem Liverpool must address after Andoni Iraola’s losing Anfield bow draws Arne Slot parallels

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They have a left-back - Robertson’s replacement is his former deputy, a returning Kostas Tsimikas making his Anfield comeback – but Salah’s old spot remains unfilled. Lewis Koumas was a locum in the place of a legend on the right flank; the Welsh winger may be destined for a fourth straight loan spell rather than a run in the team.Andoni Iraola still has work to do in the transfer market, as was evident in his Anfield bow against Monaco (PA)His presence was an illustration that Liverpool’s business stalled after the June signing of Victor Munoz.

Their two £100m men from 2025 struck in a way that at least offered optimism they will deliver more this season than last.Alexander Isak only found the net twice at Anfield in his debut campaign for Liverpool; a friendly goal will not count towards his official tally but was guided in after a pass from Ryan Gravenberch. Virgil van Dijk made his first appearance of pre-season but conceded a penalty (PA)Endo had come on for the great success of Liverpool’s tour of the United States.

It may not herald a second coming at Anfield, however: he was the third man used at No 10, after Wirtz and then Dominik Szoboszlai, who had begun in midfield.Harvey Elliott got the loudest cheer of the afternoon off the bench (Reuters)Even as he made 11 substitutions, there were other glimpses into Iraola’s thinking. He may have to step into Salah’s shoes in more meaningful matches.