New Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola is navigating a demanding schedule, with his side currently unbeaten but six points behind their position at this stage last season. The 44-year-old, who previously managed Bournemouth for three years, will return to his former club this weekend.
Iraola is described as a 'six days a week' coach, often the first on the training pitch. Forward Lewis Koumas noted the intensity of the training, stating, "It's really intense. There's a lot of hard work and no sort of light days. Everyone's putting in 100%."
Liverpool's schedule is set to be congested, with at least 49 games this season, potentially rising to over 60. Iraola adapts training schedules based on kick-off times, a change from the consistent daily training under former manager Arne Slot. The club has also engaged in discussions with the academy and Under-21s coach Rob Page to mirror first-team principles.
The average age of Liverpool's Premier League players this season is 25.3, with only five teams having a lower average. Young players like Rio Ngumoha, Trey Nyoni, and Koumas are expected to play larger roles this season. Despite being unbeaten, vice-captain Alisson has stated that draws are not sufficient for Liverpool.