Iraola Defends Barcola as Liverpool Face Manchester City Test
Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola has defended Bradley Barcola after criticism of the France forward’s display during the international break, insisting the summer arrival remains an important option as Manchester City prepare to visit Anfield on Sunday.
What changed for Liverpool
Barcola could be required in a central role against City because Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo are both unavailable through injury. Although the 24-year-old has largely operated from the left, Iraola believes he has the ability to lead the line if needed.
The Liverpool coach dismissed the idea that Barcola is going through a poor spell simply because his recent performances have not brought goals.
Iraola said the assessment of wide players and forwards can become too focused on scoring, rather than their involvement in creating and reaching opportunities. He pointed to Barcola’s earlier match against Atletico Madrid, when the winger missed several presentable chances, but stressed that getting into those positions remains encouraging.
He added that Barcola is capable of filling each of the front-three positions:
- Left wing, his most familiar role;
- Centre-forward, where he has had some experience;
- Right wing, another position he has previously covered.
Iraola described the former Paris Saint-Germain player as a “super valuable” member of his squad.
Competition context
Barcola came under scrutiny in France after Monday’s 4-1 Nations League victory over Belgium. His contribution included one chance created and two attempts on goal, but French coverage questioned his final ball and lack of a decisive outcome.
Iraola took a different view, noting that Barcola had again found promising scoring situations for his country. The coach’s position is that the forward’s movement and ability to reach those chances matter, even when he does not convert them.
For Liverpool, the issue has greater immediate importance because injuries have reduced the available senior attacking options. Barcola’s versatility could therefore become central to Iraola’s selection rather than merely providing depth from the bench.
What is scheduled next
Liverpool return from the international break with a major Premier League fixture at home to Manchester City on Sunday.
With Isak and Gakpo sidelined, Iraola must decide whether to retain Barcola in a wide role or use him through the middle. His public backing suggests the France international will remain firmly in contention for a prominent role against City.
