Iraola: Liverpool still have work to do after Monaco defeat
New Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola admitted his side has significant work to do to address defensive frailties and maintain intensity after a 3-2 defeat to Monaco at Anfield. Liverpool led 2-0 in the first half through Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz, but Monaco staged a second-half comeback to secure the win. Iraola, managing at Anfield for the first time, described his team’s performance after second-half substitutions as "tired" and unable to maintain their initial quality. He told the club's television channel that once changes were made, the players struggled to keep up the level, confirming there is still much to improve. Isak opened the scoring in the 16th minute following a move involving Ryan Gravenberch and Dominik Szoboszlai, with Wirtz adding the second after a scramble in the penalty area. Monaco pulled one back before half-time when Aleksandr Golovin converted a penalty following a Virgil van Dijk foul on him. In the second half, Mika Biereth equalised on the rebound after his initial shot was saved by Giorgi Mamardashvili. Paris Brunner then headed in the winner from a corner in the 88th minute. This defeat, following a 4-2 loss to Leeds, has renewed concerns regarding Liverpool's defensive fragility, a recurring issue from last season. Iraola employed a high defensive line during the match. Jérémy Jacquet missed out due to fitness concerns, with the manager stating he will not rush the £50 million signing from Rennes. Curtis Jones was also absent with a hip issue, while Ronald Araújo’s loan move from Barcelona remains unfinalised and Alexis Mac Allister is unavailable following his World Cup participation. Among the substitutions, Rio Ngumoha featured on the right wing, while Victor Muñoz entered the pitch before Federico Chiesa, who arrived in the 74th minute. Harvey Elliott also made an appearance to a warm reception from fans. Liverpool have two remaining pre-season fixtures against Como, the first of which will be played behind closed doors. Iraola will take charge of his first competitive match away to Newcastle on 23 August, before hosting Nottingham Forest at Anfield a week later.