Andoni Iraola was denied victory in his first home game as Liverpool manager as Victor Muñoz’s late strike salvaged a read more Iraola escapes Anfield defeat as Munoz rescues Liverpool draw
Andoni Iraola was denied victory in his first home game as Liverpool manager as Victor Muñoz’s late strike salvaged a 2-2 draw against Nottingham Forest at Anfield.
Forest looked set to claim a third consecutive victory at Anfield after goals from Dan Ndoye and Morgan Gibbs-White’s penalty twice put the visitors ahead.
Alexander Isak levelled for Liverpool in the second half before Munoz’s deflected effort secured a point for Iraola’s side, extending his unbeaten start to life at the club.
Liverpool produced an improved second-half performance after a disappointing opening period, but could not complete the comeback.
“It’s quite clear the first half has been poor, we haven’t controlled the game,” Iraola said.
“We improved a lot in the second half, much more intense, much quicker on the ball but not enough to win the game.”
The result follows Liverpool’s 2-2 draw at Newcastle in Iraola’s opening Premier League match in charge, leaving the Spaniard still searching for his first league victory.
Iraola replaced Arne Slot in the summer after the former Liverpool manager was dismissed following a disappointing campaign.
Liverpool could soon add Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola to their attacking options, with the France international reportedly close to completing a move to Anfield.
The Reds have been pursuing Barcola for several months, with reports suggesting a £106 million deal, potentially rising by another £17 million, has been agreed with PSG.
Asked about the transfer, Iraola remained coy.
“I cannot tell you anything right now. There are still things going on at this moment,” he said.
“Now we have to wait and look forward to having the squad on September 2, when this is who we are and can work with certainties.”
Liverpool will return to action against Ipswich on Friday as Iraola continues his bid to rebuild the team and secure his first Premier League victory.
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