John Aldridge

Liverpool’s friendly win over Como provided encouragement after new centre-backs Jeremy Jacquet and Ronald Araujo helped secure a clean sheet. John Aldridge argues that Liverpool still need to prove they can sustain Andoni Iraola’s intense style for 90 minutes and resolve the unsettled right-sided midfield position, with Lewis Koumas currently favored. The column also anticipates an emotional Premier League opener at Newcastle United, where supporters will honor the late Kevin Keegan.

John Aldridge argues that Liverpool must reject Paris Saint-Germain’s reported £130 million asking price for Bradley Barcola, despite the need to replace Mohamed Salah with a high-quality wide player. He warns that leaving recruitment late could repeat last year’s Alexander Isak situation and insists Liverpool should not sell Cody Gakpo or other senior players while squad depth remains questionable for a top-four Premier League and deep Champions League challenge. Aldridge also gives a cautious welcome to the 1892 Holdings investment consortium, including Jeff Bezos, provided it preserves Liverpool’s structure, values and self-sustainable model while giving the club greater long-term spending power.