How Andoni Iraola is reshaping Liverpool’s attack after Mohamed Salah’s departure

Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola is redefining the club's attacking setup following the exit of Mohamed Salah. The main goalscoring responsibility is shifting to new signing Bradley Barcola, who will operate primarily from the left wing, bringing a fresh approach to supplying striker Alexander Isak.

Adjusting to Life Without an Anfield Icon

A little over two months have passed since Salah’s move away from Liverpool, and the team continues to adapt without their iconic forward. Rather than seeking a like-for-like replacement on the right flank, Iraola has chosen to alter the team's attacking balance entirely.

Bradley Barcola, one of the club’s costliest signings, was brought in from Paris Saint-Germain after an impressive season with 13 goals and seven assists. Although right-footed, Barcola thrives when cutting inside from the left side, effectively flipping Salah’s former position.

Challenges on the Right Wing

This change leaves Liverpool with a tricky issue on the opposite flank. The squad now holds four left wingers but no natural right wingers following the close of the summer transfer window.

Youngster Rio Ngumoha struggled in the right-wing role against Newcastle, and Cody Gakpo had only modest impact versus Nottingham Forest. Iraola sees potential in new recruit Víctor Munoz to fill this gap.

"Víctor has played more games on the left in his career but has maybe been even better on the right," Iraola said ahead of the Premier League clash with Ipswich Town.

Youth Development Remains a Priority

Despite Munoz’s immediate suitability, Iraola is committed to nurturing younger players like Ngumoha on the right side. The manager believes experience will improve his adaptability.

"We know Rio can play on the left and showed his qualities. He needs to develop on the right so it gives him more options to play. He is so young. [But] because he wasn’t incredible in the first game on the right, we can’t say he will never play on the right anymore," Iraola stated.

Preparing for the Ipswich Town Match

Liverpool will put this new tactical formation to the test in their upcoming Premier League fixture against Ipswich Town on Friday. Finding the right balance quickly is key to keeping their attack sharp.

A more traditional right winger could supply the kind of direct balls that benefit Alexander Isak, whose strength lies in the penalty area. Meanwhile, Cody Gakpo remains important despite interest from Manchester City and Tottenham during the summer, continuing to fight for playing time as Liverpool adapts.

• Premier League Fixture: Ipswich Town vs Liverpool
• Date & Time: 4 September 2026, 21:00