Barcola Reveals Iraola's Expectations at Liverpool

Bradley Barcola has explained how Andoni Iraola outlined his role at Liverpool before the forward completed his move from Paris Saint-Germain. The 24-year-old said the manager wanted him to use his pace and attacking ability out wide while maintaining his defensive responsibilities, with Liverpool preparing for a meeting with Manchester City.

Barcola has made five appearances across all competitions since joining Liverpool in a major transfer from PSG but has yet to record a goal or an assist. According to the source, injuries to Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo could increase the forward's responsibilities ahead of the City match.

Liverpool first pursued Barcola in 2025 following Luis Diaz's departure to Bayern Munich, but the move did not materialize at that time. The club renewed its interest at the end of last season after Mohamed Salah's exit.

Speaking to Sky Sports before the Manchester City game, Barcola described the conversation that shaped Iraola's expectations for him.

"When I spoke to him before signing, it was about playing out wide, doing what I do best and playing with lots of pace. That's why he thought I was a good fit for this team." Barcola said.

The forward said Iraola valued his contributions at both ends of the pitch and expected him to combine attacking runs with defensive work. Barcola also expressed his desire to reward the manager's confidence through his performances.

"He knows I attack a lot but also defend a lot. He told me that's exactly what he needed from me. I'm very happy and hope to repay his trust on the pitch." Barcola said.

Barcola also identified a shared preference for direct attacking football as a reason he believed his playing style suited the manager. He acknowledged that delivering results on the field remained his responsibility.

"I think my playing style suits him well. He likes direct football and that's what I prefer. Ultimately, it's up to me to make the difference on the pitch.

If I can do that, everything will go well." Barcola said.

Iraola has defended Barcola's recent performances after the winger faced criticism from French media following France's 4-1 Nations League victory over Belgium on Monday. During that match, Barcola created one chance and attempted two shots, prompting questions about his attacking output despite the team's win.

The manager rejected the suggestion that the forward was experiencing a poor run of form, arguing that goals often shape how observers assess attacking players.

"I don't think he's in a bad moment - the problem with wingers or strikers is if they don't score a goal, 'they haven't played well'." Iraola said.

Iraola pointed to Barcola's previous opportunities against Atletico Madrid and his chances with France as evidence that the forward was getting into promising positions. He said finishing those opportunities remained important but emphasized the value of creating them.

"We have to see the games, we have to watch. I said it the first game against Atletico Madrid, he missed two or three quite clear chances. I don't care.

Honestly. I care but I want him to see (it's) there. With the national team, I have seen he has had a couple of good situations to score; he hasn't scored, but I want him to be there."

Iraola said.

The manager also indicated that Barcola could cover all three attacking positions, potentially including center-forward despite having played more frequently on the wings. That versatility could prove useful while Liverpool deal with the absences of Isak and Gakpo.

"He is a top player for us. I think he can play in any position up front." Iraola said.

Iraola noted that Barcola has played primarily as a left winger but also has experience on the right and in a central attacking role. The manager described the Frenchman as an important option across the forward line.

"He probably has played more as a left winger but has played a little bit as a striker, has played even more as a right winger. I think he can cover the three positions up front. He's a super valuable player for us." Iraola said.