Arriving at Liverpool this summer for around 140 million euros including bonuses, Bradley Barcola finally played his first minutes in Liverpool colors, during the Reds’ victory against Ipswich (2-0). Coming into play in the 64th minute, the former Parisian however witnessed a very good match from Cody Gakpo, author of two assists for Alexander Isak. A performance which could directly complicate the Frenchman’s task in his quest for a starting place, as Jamie Carragher pointed out after the match. “Barcola will struggle to find a place in the starting XI against this version of Gakpo”the former Liverpool defender wrote on X.
Andoni Iraola nevertheless called for patience regarding his recruit, who had not played since the World Cup and had not played a single minute in preparation. “I think Bradley hadn’t played a single minute since the World Cup, so we had to be careful. I think he’s training well, in good physical condition, and I think he’s been useful to us.”explained the coach, before adding: “I think 30 minutes will be beneficial for his physical condition, for his preparation, and we will continue because we are playing a lot of matches at the moment, so he will have the opportunity to play more. » A gradual integration which could therefore delay his debut as a starter, especially since Gakpo started the season with full confidence and remains capable of playing in all three offensive positions.
