Liverpool Football Club enters its pre-season training phase this week with new head coach Andoni Iraola facing the challenge of reshaping a squad currently undergoing significant personnel shifts. As the club prepares for the upcoming campaign, focus has intensified on the future of captain Virgil van Dijk.
Former Liverpool player John Barnes has publicly urged the club to prioritize a contract extension for the Dutch defender. Speaking to Betfred, Barnes noted that with the recent departures of established stars including Mohamed Salah, Ibrahima Konate, and Andy Robertson, retaining senior leadership is essential. Van Dijk, who signed a two-year deal in 2025, remains a central figure in Iraola’s plans despite recent speculation regarding a potential move to Turkey, which club officials have dismissed.
Meanwhile, the start of pre-season at the AXA Training Centre offers a “second chance” for several squad members, including 23-year-old Harvey Elliott. Following a loan spell at Aston Villa, Elliott returns to the fold under a new tactical regime. Iraola, who has only seen the arrival of Victor Munoz and Jeremy Jacquet thus far, emphasized that he views the current roster as a fresh start. “For me, you are all new signings,” Iraola stated, signaling that players returning from loans will be given the opportunity to prove their value in his system.