Henry Jackson

Liverpool may seek a new shirt sponsor for the 2027/28 season after Standard Chartered’s exclusive renewal window reportedly expired without an offer, although talks remain ongoing. New head coach Andoni Iraola has named Alisson, Joe Gomez and Dominik Szoboszlai as vice-captains and says Liverpool will sign players because the squad is thin. The roundup also covers potential moves for Yankuba Minteh and Adam Wharton, uncertainty over replacing Curtis Jones, and wider Premier League transfer news.

Liverpool are close to agreeing a €35 million (£30 million) transfer of Curtis Jones to Inter Milan, ending the midfielder’s long association with his boyhood club after a difficult year of limited playing time. Youngsters Kieran Morrison and Ifeanyi Ndukwe are nearing loan moves to Sheffield Wednesday and Levante respectively, while Calvin Ramsay has attracted interest from St Mirren. The roundup also reports a major share sale involving Liverpool owners Fenway Sports Group, outlines new Premier League time-wasting and substitution rules, and covers other transfer developments involving Arsenal, Manchester United, Tottenham and Aston Villa.

This Is Anfield contributors offer differing predictions for Liverpool’s 2026/27 season under new manager Andoni Iraola. Most expect a top-four finish, with forecasts ranging from fifth place to the title, and Alexander Isak is the overwhelmingly favored top goalscorer. Florian Wirtz and Dominik Szoboszlai are the leading player-of-the-year choices. The main concerns are limited squad depth, defensive midfield, right-back cover, attacking options and injuries. Contributors generally want Liverpool to mount a serious title challenge, play with greater intensity and identity, and win at least one trophy.

Liverpool used 36 players across six pre-season friendlies, with 29 receiving individual ratings. Trey Nyoni and Jeremy Jacquet were identified as the standout performers, while Cody Gakpo, Dominik Szoboszlai, Ifeanyi Ndukwe and Ronald Araujo also impressed. Curtis Jones was judged the most disappointing player and may leave, whereas several younger players could benefit from loan moves or increased first-team opportunities. The 2–0 win over Como concluded a promising summer under new manager Andoni Iraola.

Liverpool are reportedly waiting in the hope that Paris Saint-Germain will lower Bradley Barcola’s asking price, while PSG’s signing of other attacking players and Barcola’s lack of selection may strengthen Liverpool’s position. Curtis Jones is said to be pushing for a move to Inter Milan, but Liverpool are reportedly unlikely to sign a replacement midfielder. Getafe have opened talks for Stefan Bajcetic, and manager Andoni Iraola has indicated several likely starters for the Newcastle fixture after Liverpool’s 2–0 win over Como. The roundup also covers upcoming matches against Manchester City and Arsenal, wider Premier League transfer developments, and historical milestones involving Liverpool managers.

Arsenal are backed to win consecutive Premier League titles after ending their 22-year drought and strengthening their squad, while Liverpool are projected to finish third as they adjust to Andoni Iraola’s intense style. Manchester City are predicted to finish third by their supporter previewer, who expresses only middling optimism amid Rodri’s uncertainty, transfer upheaval and the prospect of life after Pep Guardiola. The preview also highlights concerns about Arsenal’s attacking depth and defensive injuries, while identifying Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur as possible challengers.

Alexis Mac Allister’s father and agent, Carlos Mac Allister, says the Liverpool midfielder will remain at the club this summer, dismissing reported interest from Manchester City and Real Madrid. The update follows similar comments from journalist James Pearce. While Liverpool are pleased to retain an influential player, the article notes that Mac Allister must rediscover his best form after a difficult previous season, with his future potentially reconsidered in 2027 if his performances do not improve.

Liverpool are reportedly interested in Barcelona right-back Hector Fort as they seek greater depth after Conor Bradley’s injury and Jeremie Frimpong’s uncertain adaptation. Everton and Fulham are also pursuing Fort. Liverpool left-back Calum Scanlon is nearing another loan move to Cardiff City, while midfielder James McConnell is wanted by Preston. Paris Saint-Germain have confirmed negotiations with Liverpool over Bradley Barcola, and 16-year-old striker Vincent Joseph is set to join Arsenal. The roundup also covers possible future plans for Jarell Quansah, several wider transfer developments, and the legacy of former Liverpool left-back Alan Kennedy.

Liverpool have reportedly contacted Mexico midfielder Gilberto Mora about a possible January transfer after he turns 18, although no formal offer has been made and Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, Borussia Dortmund and Barcelona are also interested. Curtis Jones could leave for Inter Milan in a deal worth about €35 million, potentially giving Trey Nyoni a larger role. Jeremy Jacquet has returned to pre-season training, while Owen Beck’s injury setback rules out a move. The roundup also covers Liverpool’s expected re-signing of Patrik Farkas, Florian Wirtz’s preferred No. 10 role, other major transfer developments and historical milestones involving Alisson and David Johnson.

Florian Wirtz says the No. 10 position is his preferred and strongest role at Liverpool after discussing it with new manager Andoni Iraola. Following an underwhelming first season after his £116 million move from Bayer Leverkusen, Wirtz believes greater familiarity with Premier League football and Iraola’s approach can help him improve. Positive preseason performances, including goals against Leeds and Monaco, have raised hopes that he can become a leading player for Liverpool, particularly alongside Alexander Isak.

Liverpool left-back Calum Scanlon could leave on loan again before the end of August, with former club Cardiff City reportedly interested in bringing him back and Sheffield Wednesday also monitoring him. Scanlon made eight league appearances for Cardiff during the second half of the 2025/26 season and helped the club secure promotion from League One. A further loan, potentially in the Championship, is viewed as beneficial for his development following a career affected by injuries. Liverpool youngsters Luke Chambers and Kieran Morrison are also attracting interest from QPR and clubs in the Netherlands, respectively.

Liverpool U21s defeated Bolton 2-0 in pre-season, with Will Wright scoring in the first half and Michael Laffey adding a second after the break. Wellity Lucky and Isaac Mabaya continued their injury recoveries, while several young players featured amid uncertainty over Calum Scanlon’s future. Liverpool are also expected to consider loan moves for Ifeanyi Ndukwe, James McConnell and Lewis Koumas as the players seek senior-level opportunities.

Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister has reportedly been shortlisted by Manchester City as a possible replacement for Rodri, although The Athletic says he is unlikely to leave and remains important to Liverpool. The roundup also reports strong loan interest in young players Ifeanyi Ndukwe, James McConnell and Lewis Koumas, while covering Ronald Araújo’s move to Liverpool and his potential fit with Andoni Iraola’s tactical approach. Additional transfer updates concern Liverpool-linked players at Paris Saint-Germain and moves involving Chelsea, Arsenal, Everton, Fulham and other Premier League clubs.

Liverpool U21s coach Jay Spearing has described Trey Nyoni as Liverpool's best player of pre-season, praising the 19-year-old's maturity, passing range, vision, aggression and positional discipline as a No. 6. Nyoni has impressed in a deep-lying midfield role during the club's preparations and has gained the trust of manager Andoni Iraola. Although pre-season performances are not a definitive measure and Nyoni may not yet be ready for regular Premier League starts, his progress has made him a legitimate first-team squad option and a potential long-term solution in midfield.

Lewis Koumas impressed during Liverpool’s pre-season tour of the United States, scoring in the 4-2 win over Sunderland and earning praise for his quality and work ethic. Despite his progress under manager Andoni Iraola, Liverpool are expected to sanction another loan because regular first-team opportunities may be limited. Burnley are among the interested clubs, while a return to the Championship is viewed as a strong development option after Koumas’s previous spells at Birmingham City and Hull City.

New Liverpool signing Ronald Araujo expressed excitement about partnering with captain Virgil van Dijk, whom he described as a personal role model. The Barcelona loanee believes his physical attributes and playing style will suit the highly competitive Premier League. With Joe Gomez and Giovanni Leoni injured and Jeremy Jacquet only recently returning to fitness, Araujo could be called upon to start Liverpool’s league opener at Newcastle, although he first needs to build match fitness.

Ronald Araujo has joined Liverpool from Barcelona on a season-long loan with a £47.1 million option to buy. He said a rapid transfer process and a sincere, honest conversation with head coach Andoni Iraola convinced him the move was right for his career. Liverpool view the Uruguay international as a potentially vital centre-back addition following Joe Gomez’s injury, although his recent errors create some risk. His aerial ability, pace and leadership could eventually make him Virgil van Dijk’s regular defensive partner.

Jeff Bezos is reportedly close to joining an investment consortium led by Amit Bhatia and including Eduardo Saverin to buy roughly one-third of Liverpool, valuing the stake at about £1.4 billion. Fenway Sports Group would remain the controlling shareholder and continue running the club, although the possible deal has already divided opinion among supporters. The roundup also covers Liverpool's reported interest in Bradley Barcola and Endrick, Ronald Araujo's potential arrival and injury concerns, and other football transfer developments. It concludes with a retrospective on Kenny Dalglish's 1977 move to Liverpool and his lasting legacy at the club.

Liverpool lost 3–2 to Monaco in a pre-season friendly at Anfield on August 9, 2026. The match was described as Andoni Iraola’s first pre-season game on Liverpool’s home ground, with confirmed starting lineups for both teams and live coverage provided by Henry Jackson. The fixture was broadcast on LFCTV in the UK and many other territories.

Tottenham are reportedly advancing their interest in Liverpool winger Cody Gakpo, whose departure could depend on Liverpool completing a deal for Bradley Barcola and potentially another wide player. Liverpool are also monitoring Paris Saint-Germain winger Ibrahim Mbaye, while Giovanni Leoni is expected to return from an ACL injury in September. Dominik Szoboszlai says the squad is currently short, although he trusts the recruitment team. Victor Munoz has joined training, and Liverpool will pay tribute to the late Kevin Keegan. The roundup also praises Andoni Iraola’s early tactical impact during Liverpool’s pre-season tour.

Liverpool lost 4-2 to Leeds in their final pre-season match in the United States at Chicago’s Soldier Field. The live coverage provided the confirmed starting lineups and substitutes, noted a 9pm BST kickoff, and said the match was broadcast on LFCTV and in other territories. Leeds entered the game under Andoni Iraola, while This Is Anfield promised further reaction, analysis and video coverage after full-time.

Liverpool faced Wrexham in a pre-season friendly at Yankee Stadium in New York, with Liverpool leading 1–0. The match coverage provides confirmed lineups, noting Liverpool’s 16-year-old starter, along with broadcast information and live updates from the game.

A live match blog covering Liverpool’s 4–2 pre-season friendly win over Sunderland at GEODIS Park in Nashville on July 25, 2026. It identifies the fixture as Andoni Iraola’s first pre-season match in charge of Liverpool, provides the confirmed lineups, kick-off and broadcast information, and directs readers to related previews, press-conference coverage and post-match analysis.

Liverpool and Newcastle United are discussing tributes to Kevin Keegan before their Premier League meeting at St James’ Park on August 23, following the former striker’s death at 75. Liverpool goalkeeper Freddie Woodman has signed a three-year contract extension, while the club is linked with Illia Zabarnyi and continues planning loans and preseason involvement for several young players. Bradley Barcola is assessed as a potentially strong fit for Andoni Iraola’s high-intensity system, though his reported price could make the transfer a significant gamble. The roundup also covers wider Premier League transfer developments, Jürgen Klopp’s expected appointment as Germany coach, and Hugo Ekitike’s ongoing recovery from a serious Achilles injury.

Liverpool have added a behind-closed-doors pre-season friendly against Como 1907 on August 16, ahead of a second match between the clubs that evening in front of supporters. The roundup also covers Liverpool’s reported enquiry for Monaco winger Maghnes Akliouche, Alisson’s expected decision to remain at the club, interest in Alexis Mac Allister, and possible investment involving Jeff Bezos. Additional football updates include Newcastle’s valuation of Bruno Guimaraes, Phil Foden’s new Manchester City contract, disciplinary action against Southampton coach Tonda Eckert, and Nottingham Forest’s talks for Ousmane Diomande. The article also reflects on Gini Wijnaldum’s Liverpool career and trophies.

England won the 1966 World Cup on home soil by defeating West Germany 4–2 after extra time, with Geoff Hurst scoring a hat-trick. Liverpool contributed three squad members: Roger Hunt was a key starter who scored three goals in the group stage, while Ian Callaghan made one appearance and Gerry Byrne did not play. Hunt finished the tournament as an important partner for Hurst and later established himself as one of Liverpool and England’s greatest forwards, scoring 286 goals for Liverpool and 18 for England.

New Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola attended the U21s’ training session alongside sporting director Richard Hughes and spoke with academy manager Rob Page. His first press conference is scheduled for 11 a.m. on July 13 at the AXA Training Centre. Liverpool are reportedly planning for Cody Gakpo to stay, while Rio Ngumoha could change position and Bradley Barcola would require a club-record fee. The article also previews Liverpool’s preseason schedule, including matches against Sunderland, Wrexham, Leeds, Monaco and Como 1907, and recaps Harry Kewell’s 2003 move to the club.

Arne Slot has reportedly held initial talks about becoming the Netherlands’ next head coach following Ronald Koeman’s departure. The roundup also highlights Hugo Ekitike’s encouraging Achilles recovery, Victor Munoz’s Spain availability, Liverpool’s returning academy players, and Lille’s indication that midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi could cost more than £100 million amid Liverpool interest. Andoni Iraola is urged to restore intensity and a stronger mentality at Liverpool, while Jordan Henderson is reported to be out of the 2026 World Cup through injury. The piece also notes Tottenham’s signing of Sandro Tonali, Donald Trump’s request for a FIFA review of Folarin Balogun’s suspension, and the anniversary of Roberto Firmino’s move to Liverpool.

Twenty years after the 2006 World Cup quarter-final, England’s goalless draw with Portugal remains remembered for Wayne Rooney’s dismissal and a painful penalty shootout. Liverpool players Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher endured contrasting fortunes: Gerrard followed his FA Cup shootout heroics with a tame miss, while Carragher’s first penalty was disallowed before Ricardo saved his retaken effort. Cristiano Ronaldo then converted the decisive kick to send Portugal through, leaving England’s players to reflect on another major tournament exit on penalties.

Kees Smit has indicated that he would consider leaving AZ Alkmaar for a higher-level challenge, amid loose links with Liverpool. The 20-year-old midfielder has already made 77 Eredivisie appearances and is regarded as one of Dutch football’s leading young talents, but Liverpool are not currently expected to make an imminent move. The roundup also covers reported interest in right-back Marco Palestra and Real Madrid left-back Fran Garcia, while highlighting Adam Wharton as a potential midfield target.

Cody Gakpo earned a 9.3 rating from FotMob after scoring twice and assisting once in the Netherlands’ 5–1 World Cup win over Sweden. His finishing, pace and directness impressed Liverpool supporters, many of whom argued that his poor 2025/26 club season made him an unfair scapegoat and questioned Arne Slot’s use of him. The performance strengthened the case for Liverpool to retain Gakpo, although the article notes that he should not automatically be guaranteed a starting place.

The Algerian Football Association has reportedly lodged a formal complaint with FIFA over refereeing decisions during Argentina’s 3–0 World Cup win over Algeria. The complaint concerns an alleged elbow by Alexis Mac Allister on Ibrahim Mazan and a tackle by Lionel Messi on Aissa Mandi’s Achilles tendon, neither of which resulted in disciplinary action. The article argues that retrospective punishment for Mac Allister would be unlikely, while acknowledging that Messi’s tackle appeared more serious, and expects Mac Allister to remain available for Argentina’s next match against Austria.

Liverpool’s 2026/27 Premier League campaign begins away to Newcastle under new manager Andoni Iraola and ends at home against Bournemouth. Three fixture stretches are identified as potentially decisive: the opening five matches, from which at least 10 points are deemed essential; a demanding winter sequence against Manchester United, Everton and Arsenal; and a late-season run against Leeds, Chelsea and Manchester City, including Xabi Alonso’s return to Anfield. Success in these periods could determine Liverpool’s title and Champions League ambitions.

Liverpool players are spending their post-season break in varied ways while seven teammates remain on international duty at the 2026 World Cup. Conor Bradley attended the Munster Senior Hurling final with Caoimhin Kelleher, Curtis Jones visited the Monaco Grand Prix, and other players—including Milos Kerkez, Dominik Szoboszlai, Kostas Tsimikas, Freddie Woodman, Giorgi Mamardashvili, Jeremie Frimpong and Federico Chiesa—shared leisure or community activities. Harvey Elliott has shortened his holiday to train, while Chiesa’s future at Liverpool remains uncertain.

Jamie Carragher believes Liverpool must challenge for the Premier League title in Andoni Iraola’s first season, even though he does not necessarily expect them to win it. Liverpool finished fifth in a poor title defence, but Carragher expects substantial summer spending and a stronger campaign. The analysis notes that Iraola and new signings may need time to settle, while Arsenal and Manchester City remain major contenders, but argues that a third-place finish should not be Liverpool’s ambition.

Liverpool are reportedly prioritising Yan Diomande as the preferred young successor to Mohamed Salah, but Paris Saint-Germain's interest could force the club to consider alternatives. Brighton winger Yankuba Minteh offers pace and a left-footed cutting-in style but remains raw; FC Köln's Said El Mala has strong goal production and acceleration but is more naturally left-sided; and Lille's Matias Fernandez-Pardo provides versatility across the attack with a developing record of goals and assists. Diomande remains the preferred option, while all three alternatives are viewed as young players with room to improve.

Liverpool have completed the £34.5 million signing of winger Victor Munoz from Osasuna. Contrary to reports that Real Madrid secured a buy-back clause, James Pearce of The Athletic says Madrid only retain the right to match any future offer if Liverpool sell Munoz. Madrid considered exercising an €8 million buy-back option before the transfer but chose not to do so. Munoz is described as a versatile addition to Andoni Iraola's Liverpool squad, while the club is expected to pursue further reinforcements in attack, defence and midfield.

Brazil defeated Haiti 3-0 in Philadelphia to recover from their opening 1-1 draw with Morocco and move top of World Cup Group C on goal difference. Alisson kept a clean sheet and made three saves, including one notable stop, while Matheus Cunha scored twice and Vinicius Junior added the other goal. Brazil’s victory puts them in a strong position to top the group, with a win over Scotland potentially decisive.

Argentina won the 1978 World Cup on home soil, defeating the Netherlands 3–1 after extra time in the final, with Mario Kempes scoring twice. Scotland, featuring Liverpool stars Kenny Dalglish and Graeme Souness, began poorly with a loss to Peru and a draw against Iran. They then beat the Netherlands 3–2, with Dalglish scoring and Archie Gemmill producing a memorable goal, but Johnny Rep's response ended Scotland's hopes of advancing. Dalglish and Souness were the only Liverpool players to appear at the tournament.

Alexis Mac Allister’s agent, Carlos Mac Allister, declined to discuss a potential new Liverpool contract before the World Cup. Fabrizio Romano reported that Liverpool have met Ayyoub Bouaddi’s representatives multiple times, with Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain also interested in the highly rated midfielder. The roundup also covers Liverpool’s expected late-summer transfer activity, changes to coaching staff, Vitezslav Jaros’s knee injury, Virgil van Dijk’s standing at the club, and wider football news including Bernardo Silva’s move to Real Madrid and Jordan Henderson’s birthday.

Kevin Keegan played only 26 minutes at the 1982 World Cup after a serious back injury delayed his debut. Introduced against host nation Spain in a second-group-stage match England needed to win by two clear goals, he missed a late, open-header opportunity as the game finished 0–0. England consequently failed to reach the semi-finals, while West Germany advanced and ultimately lost the final 3–1 to Italy. The missed chance remains one of English football’s most enduring World Cup “what if” moments.