Iraola Seeks Control in Liverpool's Premier League Opener

Anfield stirs for its first Premier League outing of the season this afternoon, and Liverpool arrive with questions to answer.

Andoni Iraola’s reign opened with a jolt on Tyneside, his side needing a 98th-minute penalty from Dominik Szoboszlai to steal a point at Newcastle. The late drama rescued the result, but it also underlined how much work still lies ahead for the new manager.

He walks into Anfield now needing something calmer. Something controlled. Something that looks like a Liverpool home performance.

Iraola seeks control after chaotic opener

The Spaniard is not expected to rip up his plans after just one league game. The structure stayed intact under severe pressure at St James’ Park, and Iraola will want continuity as Liverpool look to impose themselves from the first whistle rather than scramble for salvation at the last.

One change, though, is firmly on the table.

Summer signing Victor Munoz is pushing hard for a start after his impact off the bench at Newcastle, where he won the stoppage‑time spot-kick that Szoboszlai buried. Rio Ngumoha could make way if Iraola rewards that decisive contribution with a place in the XI.

The message is clear: make a difference, and you play.

Forest arrive bruised but dangerous

Forest limp into Anfield with their own concerns. Neco Williams is a major doubt after taking a knock against Leeds on Tuesday, a setback that threatens to strip Forest of energy and thrust down the right.

The good news for the visitors comes in the shape of Morgan Gibbs-White. Passed fit after a knee problem, he remains central to Forest’s creativity and their hopes of unsettling Liverpool on their own turf. When Forest counter, the ball usually finds his feet.

There is also the intrigue of a possible debut. Liam Delap, signed for £45million from Chelsea, could make his first appearance in Forest colours. The fee alone demands attention; the stage at Anfield would be a fitting place to introduce a forward signed to change games.

Isak under the spotlight

On the Liverpool side, the spotlight falls on Alexander Isak. The frontman endured a difficult afternoon at his former club Newcastle, struggling to find rhythm in a hostile atmosphere that never let him breathe.

Iraola needs more from his No9 now. Anfield expects its centre-forward to dominate defenders, to set the tone in the press, to finish when the chances come. Isak has the pedigree. Today, he needs the performance.

Liverpool’s first home game of the season, a new manager on the touchline, Forest arriving with fresh firepower and key fitness doubts — the pieces are set.

Now Anfield waits to see whether Iraola’s Liverpool can turn late chaos into early control.