Liverpool's Anfield stadium has regained its electric atmosphere, with fans and players alike enjoying a renewed sense of joy and connection. The team has won nine of their 13 games under manager Andoni Iraola, with a recent five-match winning streak in all competitions. This is the longest such run since the start of last season under Arne Slot. The team's rotation policy, which has seen them make three or more starting XI changes in nine consecutive games, has been a key factor in their success. Iraola's approach to managing two games a week, which involves relying on analysts and video room work, has allowed the players to adapt to the demanding schedule. Liverpool's new signings, including Alexander Isak, Bradley Barcola, and Florian Wirtz, are settling in well, while players like Cody Gakpo and Alexis Mac Allister have shown significant improvement this season. The team's defense, led by Ronald Araujo, has also been a strength, with Jeremy Jacquet seamlessly integrating into the Premier League. Iraola's focus on intensity and high pressing has been a key aspect of the team's resurgence. Captain Virgil van Dijk has praised the new approach, which involves taking calculated risks to win the ball high up the pitch. While there is still room for improvement, the team's progress under Iraola has been impressive, and a win against Arsenal on Sunday could see them move closer to the top of the Premier League table.
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Anfield, intensity, rotation - how Iraola is improving Liverpool
Prepared with AI assistance; not independently fact-checked. Original source: BBC Football