Liverpool began their Premier League campaign with a 2-2 draw against Newcastle United at St James’ Park, with new manager Andoni Iraola praising his side’s resilience despite signs that last season’s problems remain.
Newcastle matched Liverpool’s intensity throughout a fiercely contested encounter, forcing the visitors to work hard for a point.
While Iraola was pleased with Liverpool’s fighting spirit, the result highlighted areas that still require improvement, particularly in attack.
Record signing Alexander Isak endured a difficult return to St James’ Park against his former club. The Sweden international struggled to convert his opportunities and failed to reproduce the clinical finishing that made him one of the Premier League’s most feared forwards at Newcastle.
Isak’s departure from Newcastle last summer was contentious before Liverpool completed a reported £125 million deal for the striker.
His first season at Liverpool was disrupted by injuries, with the forward managing only three goals. His latest performance has renewed questions over whether he can rediscover his best form.
Former England defender Gary Neville criticised Isak after the match, describing him as “too nice” and suggesting he needed to show greater aggression in the final third.
Liverpool will continue to rely heavily on Isak, particularly with Hugo Ekitike facing a lengthy absence. However, the club are also looking to strengthen their attacking options before the transfer deadline.
One player being linked with a move to Anfield is Bradley Barcola of Paris Saint-Germain. Liverpool are reportedly optimistic about completing a deal for the 23-year-old, although negotiations over the transfer fee remain unresolved.
PSG are reportedly demanding around £140 million, while Liverpool’s ownership group, Fenway Sports Group, are reluctant to meet that valuation.
Barcola has established himself as one of PSG’s most dangerous attacking players, contributing 34 goals since the beginning of the 2024/25 campaign.
The France international would offer Liverpool additional pace, width, dribbling ability and a direct threat in the final third.
His arrival could also ease the pressure on Isak by providing Liverpool with another attacking outlet as the season progresses.
Liverpool’s draw at Newcastle therefore highlighted both their resilience and their remaining weaknesses. Iraola has already acknowledged the need for further reinforcements, but the performances of key players such as Isak and Florian Wirtz will also be crucial if Liverpool are to challenge strongly this season.
With the club adjusting to significant changes in their attacking line, Liverpool will hope to find greater consistency and attacking sharpness in the games ahead.
