Liverpool's summer spending masks structural imbalance that could derail Iraola

The Reds' net spend exceeded last summer's outlay, yet according to Sky Sports, key personnel gaps remain despite the £123m capture of Bradley Barcola from Paris Saint-Germain.

Jamie Carragher flagged critical shortages in full-back depth and midfield cover. While Barcola strengthens the left flank, Liverpool appear tactically one-dimensional on the right wing following Mohamed Salah's departure—a particular puzzle given the winger's left-footed brilliance was irreplaceable.

Right-back poses an immediate headache. Jeremie Frimpong, signed last year and not marketed as Trent Alexander-Arnold's successor, has started the season there out of necessity. With Conor Bradley sidelined, Liverpool lack a natural replacement, leaving Iraola to compromise or shuffle centre-backs—a risky move in a system that demands explosive full-backs.

Frimpong and Milos Kerkez rank among the Premier League's top sprinters this season, illustrating how central attacking fullbacks are to Iraola's blueprint. His Bournemouth tenure proved this, with tactical emphasis on high pressing and ball recovery.

Therein lies the deeper concern. Alexis Mac Allister's reduced physicality over 18 months, combined with questions over Ryan Gravenberch's ability to cover defensively while full-backs surge forward, suggests Liverpool's midfield may struggle protecting the counter-attack. Iraola's philosophy demands aggressive pressing from midfielders—a heavy ask without specialist cover.