Iraola begins Liverpool era as Szoboszlai signs and squad returns to Kirkby

Andoni Iraola starts Liverpool tenure as squad returns to Kirkby and Dominik Szoboszlai signs

Andoni Iraola held his first press conference at Liverpool’s AXA Training Centre a day before most of the first-team squad returned to training, and the club confirmed Dominik Szoboszlai has signed a five-year contract while preparations continue at Kirkby.

Iraola, who signed a two-year deal with Liverpool, has overseen initial individual fitness tests and on-pitch work as players resumed sessions this week. The head coach emphasized the need for further signings and spent the opening days assessing the current squad, describing his approach as viewing existing players “as new signings.”

Szoboszlai, 25, who captains Hungary, addressed the vice-captaincy situation at the club, noting departures of senior figures and saying he would be ready to step up if called upon. The club also noted that several senior players are yet to return from World Cup duty.

Liberal News Analysis: What Does This Development Mean?

Iraola’s arrival has prompted an intensive assessment phase at the training ground, with players undergoing a bespoke fitness test involving diagonals and directional changes to replicate match movements. Coaching staff emphasized monitoring individual capabilities and integrating new signings with returning first-team members during the upcoming pre-season tour.

Club sources described a youthful atmosphere at Kirkby as academy players travel with the squad and some established players remain absent due to international commitments. Medical staff reported players returned in generally good condition following summer breaks.

Training will ramp up during Liverpool’s pre-season tour to the United States, where double sessions and scheduled friendlies in Chicago, Nashville and New York are planned to provide further opportunities for assessment and match minutes for both senior and academy players.

Quick Glance: What You Need to Know

• Andoni Iraola conducted his first press conference and began on-pitch work at Liverpool’s AXA Training Centre.
• Dominik Szoboszlai signed a five-year contract and spoke about stepping into a leadership role.
• Players completed initial fitness tests at Kirkby and will join a U.S. pre-season tour with friendlies in Chicago, Nashville and New York.