Liverpool are set for a unique start to their Premier League campaign, as they prepare to face six teams with new managers in their opening six top-flight fixtures. This marks an unprecedented occurrence in the Premier League era, according to Opta analysis.
Andoni Iraola, who took the helm at Anfield in June after leaving Bournemouth, is also new to his role. This summer has seen a record nine Premier League clubs appoint new managers, leading to a significant shift across the league.
Iraola acknowledged the additional preparation required, stating, "We are facing a lot of new managers so there is an extra part of the job to do." He highlighted the importance of analysing how new managers played at previous clubs to anticipate their strategies. Liverpool's analysis department, including new tactical analyst Tom Webber, plays a crucial role in this preparation.
Among Liverpool's first six opponents, Oliver Glasner (Nottingham Forest), Gary O'Neil (Ipswich), and Enzo Maresca (Manchester City) have previously faced Liverpool with other Premier League clubs. Matthias Jaissle (Newcastle), Alvaro Arbeloa (Fulham), and Marco Rose (Bournemouth) are the other new managers Liverpool will encounter.
The opening match sees Iraola's Liverpool face Jaissle's Newcastle at St James' Park on Sunday. Jaissle has won his first game in charge at his three previous clubs, while Iraola is on the longest current unbeaten run of any Premier League manager, having not lost any of his final 18 games last season with Bournemouth. Iraola also has an unbeaten record in his six previous top-flight meetings with Newcastle.