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Andoni Iraola has set a challenge for Liverpool's record-breaking signings Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz to raise their game during his debut season at the Anfield helm.
The Reds invested just over $300 million in the pair last summer, yet both struggled considerably to justify their potential—and hefty price tags—throughout their opening campaigns on Merseyside.
Wirtz had the more productive of the two seasons, racking up 15 goal contributions across all competitions, though the 23-year-old still fell short of what was expected of him. Isak, on the other hand, endured a torrid campaign, sidelined for several months with a fractured leg and managing just four goals in 22 outings.
Now with a full season of experience behind them, both players face mounting pressure to deliver under new boss Iraola, who has outlined exactly how each can step up their game in the season ahead.
Availability Essential to Isak's Success
There's no question that Isak's biggest obstacle to thriving at Liverpool remains his injury record. His performances must also improve, but Iraola believes keeping the striker fit and available is the most important step toward achieving that.
"I think it is a massive season for Alexander," said the Spaniard. "He knows at the end it is [about] two things: the first is availability, and without availability we cannot have the second thing, which is the performance level.
"But I think this has to be the first aim for us, to keep him in a good place in terms of being available. I'm sure if we manage to do this he will perform well because he has been very good during the preseason.
"If we can keep him at a good level he will score his goals and he will be a threat. I have no doubts about his level."
Isak will get his chance to make a statement on Sunday in a tricky reunion with Newcastle United. The Swedish international makes his first Premier League return to St James' Park and can expect a hostile welcome following his acrimonious departure from the club.
Iraola Reveals Key Wirtz Advice
Iraola heaped praise on Wirtz ahead of the Newcastle fixture, but stressed that the German international must develop greater patience on the pitch, exploiting available space rather than constantly chasing the ball.
"Florian understands the game very well, on the ball and without the ball," Iraola told Men in Blazers. "He understands the spaces that he has to take, who is covering him, how he has to move, how to damage the opposition.
"Sometimes, he gets too attracted to the ball because he wants to be involved and touch the ball all the time. Sometimes, I have to tell him to leave some distance, wait, be a little bit more patient so the game arrives to you, and then you can hurt the opposition.
"But I think he loves the game. He asks the correct questions and you can feel it straight away."
Wirtz was frequently deployed on the left flank last season under Arne Slot, but Iraola has already confirmed his intention to play his key creative force in attacking midfield. Perhaps the former Bournemouth manager can unlock the very best of him over the coming nine months.