Liverpool‘s head coach, Andoni Iraola, has expressed concerns that his team is struggling to maintain the desired fitness level necessary to compete for a full 90 minutes, following a 3-2 preseason defeat to Monaco.
For the second consecutive match this summer, the Reds squandered a two-goal advantage.
Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz—both of whom had underwhelming debut seasons at Liverpool—gave the hosts a 2-0 lead prior to half-time. However, Monaco rallied back, and a late header from Paris Brunner sealed the victory for the visitors at Anfield.
In an interview with club media, Iraola indicated that the team is currently falling short of the fitness levels he expects.
“I think we played really well in the first half, especially the initial 30 minutes, but right now we probably lack the stamina needed to maintain that level throughout the match. They were much stronger in the second half,” Iraola stated.
“Just as we were better in the first half, they dominated the second half and deserved to turn the game around.”
Regarding several senior players making their first preseason appearances in this match, Iraola said, “They showed varying levels of fitness, but overall they were in a good place. The players who it was their first game or even their second game had energy.”
He continued, “The issue is that they may not currently have the stamina for the full 90 minutes, which leads to fatigue setting in. It will take time, and we need more training for them.”
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Liverpool has faced several injury setbacks during preseason, particularly in defense, with Joe Gomez, Giovanni Leoni, and new signee Jérémy Jacquet all sidelined due to injury. Additionally, Curtis Jones missed the Monaco match due to “hip issues,” according to Iraola.
However, sources have informed ESPN that Barcelona defender Ronald Araújo is expected to join the Reds on loan, which would enhance their defensive options. The agreement includes an option for a permanent transfer for a fee of €55 million (£47m / $64m).
Araújo, who captains Barcelona, primarily plays as a center-back but is also capable of playing as a right-back.
Next, Liverpool will take on Como in their final preseason match before kicking off the new Premier League season against Newcastle on Aug. 23.