Former Liverpool striker Stan Collymore says new Reds manager Andoni Iraola must prove himself by securing a top-four finish in the Premier League this season.
Iraola took over from Arne Slot in the summer after Liverpool had endured a difficult league campaign, completely failing to mount anything approaching a respectable title defence.
And despite the Spaniard’s strong reputation following a good stint at Bournemouth, Collymore has warned that he cannot afford to be complacent given the pressure that comes with the job.
Iraola must prove himself
During an exclusive interview with 10bet, Collymore said of the Reds’ boss: “Iraola brings a clear attacking identity, restoring intent and energy after Liverpool looked slightly flat toward the end of last season.
“However, his ultimate success in his first 10 to 15 games will be measured by defensive stability and clean sheets.
“Arsenal, Manchester City and the other top sides boast proven defensive structures.
“Liverpool possess vast attacking quality, but Iraola must prove he can lock down the back four against top opposition.
“Reaching the top four while competing for domestic silverware – like an FA Cup or League Cup – would represent a strong opening year.”
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Pressure at the top
On the relentless pressures of Premier League management, Collymore added: “Modern elite management across football, rugby or high-performance individual sports is a relentless, 24/7 living dynamic.
“It isn’t just match preparation; it’s the non-stop media scrutiny, squad dynamics and content cycles.
“When Arne Slot stepped in [to replace Jürgen Klopp at Anfield], he earned his opportunity after winning the league, even if Liverpool’s levels dipped late in his tenure.
“Liverpool aren’t historically a sacking club, but hiring Andoni Iraola gives them a top-tier tactical set-up.
“For top managers like Klopp or Pep Guardiola, we will see a shift toward international football.
“Younger managers realise they don’t need to step away completely; an elite, national-team role offers a high-salaried ‘release valve’.
“You gather squad camps four times a year, maintain elite tactical sharp-mindedness, compete in expanded World Cups and avoid daily-grind burnout.”
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Juliette White 
SportJustSport writers