Andoni Iraola's Pre-Season Priorities: Jacquet, Jones, and Ngumoha (2026)

Andoni Iraola's first pre-season as Liverpool head coach is already underway, but it's not until next week that he'll welcome back his full squad. With a critical summer schedule ahead, the ECHO has identified three key issues Iraola must address to ensure a successful season. Firstly, the future of Curtis Jones is uncertain, with Liverpool rebuffing two approaches from Inter. Jones, who is enjoying a holiday in Mallorca, could be open to a move if he doesn't impress on the tour. Secondly, the new £60m signing, Jeremy Jacquet, must be eased into the team after shoulder surgery. The Frenchman will likely start alongside Joe Gomez at centre-back, with Iraola tasked with getting him up to speed to partner Virgil van Dijk. Lastly, Rio Ngumoha's position is being questioned, with the teenager's future uncertain. Liverpool are looking for a right-sided attacker, and Ngumoha's breakout summer has seen him linked with a new contract. However, his lack of senior experience may see him reshaped into a different type of winger, with Iraola's reputation for improving young forwards a key factor in his decision-making. These three issues will be crucial in determining Liverpool's success this season, and Iraola's ability to navigate them will be a key test of his managerial prowess.

Andoni Iraola's Pre-Season Priorities: Jacquet, Jones, and Ngumoha (2026)
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