Ahead of the Champions League Matchday 3 fixture where Liverpool will host Villarreal, Liverpool head coach Iraola attended a press conference. In the second part of the conference, Iraola recalled how Iñigo Pérez was unable to join AFC Bournemouth's coaching staff due to work permit issues. He also discussed Víctor Muñoz's performance, the team's growth through adversity, and his reflections on his first ten matches coaching Liverpool. Furthermore, he looked back at his farewell match as a player at San Mamés Stadium and evaluated the performance of new signing Araujo.
Reporter: During your time at AFC Bournemouth, you were very keen to bring Iñigo Pérez to English football, but he ultimately failed to obtain a work permit. How significant a setback was that for you at the time? From another perspective, did that work permit refusal perhaps lead to his coaching success today?
Iraola: Yes, I think it did. At the time, we tried everything to bring him to England, and he even came to the area, but he couldn't officially take up the role because he couldn't get a work permit. We tried every possible way to convince the approval committee, but they ultimately decided he didn't have the qualifications to be an assistant coach. I strongly protested at the time because I only had two key assistants, Pablo and Iñigo. But it was a blessing in disguise; it ultimately led to him coaching Rayo Vallecano and proving his coaching talent. Now he's even leading Villarreal in the Champions League, and I'm genuinely happy for him.
Reporter: He brought his family to AFC Bournemouth at the time, and you were also new to coaching in the Premier League. How did you get through that difficult period, with your family having to move back?
Iraola: That period was very difficult because everything was uncertain. He was fully committed to starting work at AFC Bournemouth, but until the work permit was sorted, all aspects of life were on hold—children couldn't go to school, and many procedures couldn't be completed. After a lengthy qualification review and a long wait, when it was finally confirmed that the visa could not be approved, we knew we had to accept reality.
Fortunately, things worked out well for everyone. He returned home to take over Rayo Vallecano, and for me, it prompted me to work closely with Tommy Elphick and Shaun Cooper, who took on more responsibilities in the coaching staff. Although I could have chosen to find new assistant coaches from Spain, Tommy and Shaun's excellent performance made me decide to trust them, and our collaboration has proven to be very successful.
Reporter: Víctor Muñoz scored a spectacular goal recently. You played a key role in bringing him to the team. What qualities attracted you to him during his time in LaLiga?
Iraola: Víctor is a player we have tracked for a long time and are very familiar with. I have an excellent personal relationship with his coach from last season, Alessio Lisci, who spoke very highly of him. Only when a player truly joins your team can you most intuitively feel his tactical value. In terms of competitive attitude, he is always ready to help the team, whether on the left, right, or even playing right-back in the last match; he always strictly follows tactical instructions.
He has an intense hunger for victory. Although he has never played for a first team at a club the size of Liverpool, he has been systematically developed in the youth academies of both Barcelona and Real Madrid. He has trained with top clubs and knows the stringent standards and competitive demands they require. Coupled with his recent experience with the national team, his adaptation speed has been astonishing.
Reporter: You previously mentioned the demanding schedule of four matches in ten days, and the team has also faced many adversities recently, such as the loss to Manchester City and consecutive injuries to Szoboszlai and Frimpong. How has your understanding of this squad deepened after these tough matches?
Iraola: It is precisely by overcoming adversity that a team can truly transform and grow. Only when Víctor is forced to play right-back, a position he has never played before, or in high-pressure situations like falling behind or playing with one less player, can the entire team truly build deep tactical understanding and mutual trust.
For example, when the team is on the back foot at halftime or facing sudden injuries, Trey Niouni was unexpectedly called upon to play without even having time to warm up. These sudden situations, which test a player's adaptability and mental resilience, best reveal a team's character. Recently, we have occasionally fallen behind in the league, but the team has always shown strong resilience to correct mistakes and secure favorable results. This valuable experience under pressure is crucial for the entire team.
Of course, I also hope matches go smoothly and we establish a winning position early, but professional football is often full of twists and turns; it's impossible for everything to go as planned.
Reporter: Without realizing it, you've already reached your tenth match coaching Liverpool. Looking back at these ten games, what aspects satisfy you, and what areas still need improvement?
Iraola: Honestly, the schedule has been so tight that I haven't had time to reflect on these things. It's only hearing you mention the number ten that I realize we've played so many matches. It's been full of ups and downs and various challenges. But the wheels of football never stop turning; after the Brentford match, I was already studying the technical analysis report for Villarreal on the bus home. Tomorrow, as soon as the final whistle blows, my attention will immediately shift to Brighton.
At this stage, we are learning on the job and striving to adapt to the demanding rhythm of competing on multiple fronts. Of course, other teams are also facing similar physical and preparation challenges. The only thing we can do is review daily, constantly learn from our experiences, and continuously improve our overall performance.
Reporter: Yesterday, a video circulated online of you scoring a spectacular goal against Villarreal in your farewell match at San Mamés Stadium...
Iraola: That was quite a spectacular goal, wasn't it? (laughs) A beautiful goal.
Reporter: Can you still recall the moment you scored?
Iraola: Yes, that goal was truly special. It was my last match at San Mamés Stadium, and it meant a great deal to me. That day was one of the most perfect farewells a professional footballer could wish for. We secured European qualification with that match, and it was also my last league game before playing in the Copa del Rey final. We had a resounding 4-0 victory at home, and the whole stadium was in a state of euphoria. Although it was many years ago, I still remember every detail of that day vividly.
Reporter: Comparing your first ten matches coaching Liverpool with your first ten matches at AFC Bournemouth, how do these two experiences differ in terms of mindset?
Iraola: I can assure you, the start at AFC Bournemouth was much tougher! (laughs) It was extremely difficult to begin with at AFC Bournemouth, but then we gradually turned the tide and went on an excellent run of results. I hope that after these first ten matches at Liverpool, the team can also consistently stay on a high level.
Reporter: Ronald Araujo is considered a highly anticipated major signing this summer. Are you very pleased with how quickly he has integrated into the team and successfully addressed the need at right-back?
Iraola: I think Ronald has probably already answered related questions in the press conference. Signing him might not have been in the original plan at the beginning of the transfer window, but a rare opportunity arose during the transfer process. After thorough technical and tactical evaluation and in-depth communication, we quickly finalized the transfer. From my first conversation with him, his attitude was very encouraging. You can see his hunger for trophies and his extensive experience in major competitions. He has been tested by top clubs and is eager to showcase his abilities on a new stage.
At the time, I directly asked him if he would be willing to fill in at right-back if the team needed it, and he unhesitatingly said that as long as the team needed him, he was ready to give his all for the collective good. His subsequent performance on the field proved his commitment. As his playing time accumulates, the language barrier disappears, and his understanding with teammates deepens, his experience will become a valuable asset for the entire team. So far, his contribution to the team has been impeccable.
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