Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has called on Liverpool’s players to take responsibility for the club’s disappointing start to the season, arguing that the team’s performances should not be blamed primarily on new manager Andoni Iraola.

Liverpool have struggled to find their best form despite remaining unbeaten in the opening period described in the report. Their goalless draw against Fulham at Anfield added to concerns about the team’s attacking output and left them six points behind the league leaders.

The result has increased scrutiny on the squad as supporters look for signs of improvement under Iraola, who replaced Arne Slot during the summer.

Carragher Defends Iraola and Questions the Players’ Performances

Carragher made his position clear while speaking to Sky Sports News, saying he was not placing pressure or criticism on the new manager despite Liverpool’s slow start.

The former defender believes Liverpool’s players must show greater commitment and consistency after their disappointing performances in the previous campaign. In his view, changing the manager should not automatically mean that the players are given another season without being held accountable.

Carragher’s argument is that Liverpool’s decision to replace Slot was partly based on the belief that the squad had enough quality to perform better. He therefore believes the players must demonstrate that the change in leadership can produce the expected improvement.

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Liverpool’s Attack Needs to Improve

Liverpool’s draw against Fulham highlighted the difficulties the team has experienced when trying to turn possession into clear scoring opportunities.

Although the Reds created some chances, they could not find the breakthrough. Fulham also threatened at the other end, making the result a frustrating afternoon for the home supporters.

Iraola acknowledged after the match that his team had struggled to create enough chances and make the difference in attack. He also pointed to a lack of freshness following the demanding schedule, while recognising that the team needed to perform better.

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What Happens Next for Liverpool?

Liverpool Hit by Double Injury Blow as Isak and Gakpo Miss Manchester City Clash

Liverpool have suffered a significant setback ahead of their Premier League meeting with Manchester City, with Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo ruled out of Sunday’s encounter at Anfield.

The two forwards returned from international duty with injuries, leaving head coach Andoni Iraola with important decisions to make as Liverpool prepare for one of their biggest tests of the season. The news comes at a difficult time for the Reds, who are looking to build momentum after their recent 1-0 victory over Bournemouth.

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With Manchester City arriving in strong form, Liverpool must now consider alternative attacking options for a match that could have a significant impact on their early-season campaign.

Isak and Gakpo Ruled Out

Isak’s absence will be particularly disappointing for Liverpool supporters because the striker had begun to find his rhythm in front of goal.

According to reports, the Sweden international suffered a minor thigh injury while representing his country. Gakpo also returned with an injury after picking up an ankle problem during the Netherlands’ international fixture against Serbia.

Iraola confirmed that neither player would be ready to feature against Manchester City. The Liverpool manager indicated that both players would continue to be monitored, with the club assessing their progress as they recover.

Although the injuries are not currently believed to be long-term problems, their timing presents Liverpool with an immediate challenge. The coaching staff must find a way to maintain the team’s attacking threat without two important forward options.

Liverpool will also be keen to avoid rushing either player back before they have recovered sufficiently. With several demanding fixtures approaching, managing the fitness of the squad could prove just as important as the result against City.

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Lewis Koumas Could Get His Opportunity

One player who could benefit from the situation is young Welsh forward Lewis Koumas.

Iraola has expressed confidence in Koumas and believes the youngster is capable of contributing when called upon. The manager has indicated that Liverpool have other attacking options available, suggesting that the team will not rely on just one replacement to compensate for the missing forwards.

For Koumas, an opportunity against Manchester City would represent a major moment in his development. Facing a team of City’s quality would test his movement, decision-making, composure and ability to contribute under pressure.

Young players often need opportunities in difficult matches to demonstrate whether they can handle the demands of senior football. However, Liverpool must also be careful not to place unrealistic expectations on a developing player.

If Koumas is selected, his role could involve stretching the opposition defence, pressing City’s defenders and helping Liverpool create space for their other attackers.

The final decision will depend on Iraola’s tactical plan and the balance he wants to achieve between attacking ambition and defensive responsibility.

Liverpool Face a Major Test Against Manchester City

Sunday’s match represents a difficult assignment for Liverpool, particularly because Manchester City have made a strong start to the campaign.

Playing at Anfield could provide Liverpool with an advantage, as the home crowd is expected to create an intense atmosphere. Nevertheless, City possess the quality and experience to punish defensive mistakes and exploit spaces left by opponents.

Liverpool will need to remain organised, particularly when City control possession. Pressing at the right moments could help the Reds force turnovers, but an aggressive approach also carries risks if the opposition plays through the first line of pressure.

Without Isak and Gakpo, Liverpool may need to adjust how they build attacks. The team could place greater emphasis on movement from the wide areas, midfield runs and quick combinations around the penalty area.

The challenge will be finding the right balance. Liverpool cannot afford to become so cautious that they surrender the initiative, but they must also avoid allowing Manchester City too much space to attack.

Iraola Must Find the Right Tactical Solution

The injury situation gives Iraola an important opportunity to demonstrate the depth and flexibility of his squad.

A successful team needs more than an effective starting eleven. It must also have alternatives capable of maintaining performance levels when important players become unavailable.

Liverpool’s response will therefore depend on how well the available players understand their responsibilities. Whoever replaces Isak and Gakpo will need support from the midfield and wide players to ensure that the team remains dangerous in possession.

The manager may also consider how substitutions could influence the match later on. Against an opponent with City’s attacking quality, energy and concentration could become increasingly important as the game progresses.

Liverpool’s recent win over Bournemouth offered encouragement, but the Manchester City fixture presents a different level of difficulty. The Reds will need to show that they can adapt to unexpected setbacks without losing their tactical identity.

A Busy Period Could Determine Liverpool’s Progress

The Manchester City match is also part of a demanding period for Liverpool. The club must manage player fitness while preparing for domestic and European commitments.

That makes the recovery of Isak and Gakpo important beyond Sunday’s fixture. Their injuries will need to be assessed carefully, particularly if Liverpool want to avoid turning short-term problems into longer absences.

For now, the immediate priority is to compete effectively against Manchester City with the players available. A positive performance could strengthen confidence within the squad, while the match will also give Iraola a clearer picture of which alternatives can be trusted in demanding situations.

Liverpool supporters will be hoping that the remaining attackers can rise to the challenge and help the team secure a valuable result at Anfield.

Conclusion

Liverpool’s preparations for Manchester City have been complicated by the absence of Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo. Both forwards are unavailable after sustaining injuries on international duty, forcing Andoni Iraola to reconsider his attacking options.

Lewis Koumas could receive an opportunity, although Liverpool will need a collective effort to compensate for the missing players. Against a strong Manchester City side, organisation, clinical finishing and intelligent tactical decisions could prove decisive.

The result remains uncertain, but the match will provide an important test of Liverpool’s squad depth and ability to respond to adversity.