Andoni Iraola’s opening weeks at Anfield have been far from straightforward, although many Liverpool supporters would agree that the new manager has inherited a squad that was already lacking balance.
One of the biggest problems is the make-up of the attack. Richard Hughes has left Iraola with four wingers who are most comfortable operating from the left, while there is no natural right-sided winger in the squad.
The midfield situation is arguably even more concerning. Iraola currently has only three senior midfielders available, and the combination of those players does not necessarily suit the style of football he wants to implement.
Trey Nyoni could potentially provide a different dynamic alongside Dominik Szoboszlai, but the youngster is still developing and has limited senior experience.
Liverpool’s midfield problem has a clear solution
Liverpool were expected to replace Curtis Jones after the academy graduate left Anfield for Inter Milan during the summer transfer window. However, Hughes ultimately decided against bringing in a direct replacement.
That decision could become increasingly significant as the season progresses.
Liverpool cannot address the problem through transfers until the January window, but the need for a change in midfield is becoming increasingly clear. The Reds need players with profiles that better suit Iraola’s tactical demands if they are to resolve the issue.
One name who could fit the bill is Lamine Camara. The Senegalese midfielder has previously attracted interest from Liverpool and remains a player being monitored by the club.
January could therefore provide Liverpool with an opportunity to step up their interest and potentially bring the talented Senegal international to Anfield.
Liverpool welcome midfielder back after four years
Despite failing to add a senior midfielder during the summer, Liverpool have now completed a move for Patrik Farkas in an interesting development.
The Hungarian U19 international previously spent two years at Liverpool between 2020 and 2022, during which time he shared the dressing room with players including Keyrol Figueroa, Jayden Danns and Wellity Lucky.
Farkas eventually left the club in 2022 to join Blackburn Rovers, where he later scored against Liverpool at U18 level.
Four years after his departure, however, the midfielder has now returned to his boyhood club.
He will link up with his younger brother Erik, while also joining fellow Hungarians Dominik Szoboszlai, Milos Kerkez and Armin Pecsi at Liverpool.
With Iraola currently having limited midfield options, Farkas will have a chance to impress. If he takes that opportunity, a first-team debut could potentially become a realistic target.
