Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola will have been encouraged by a series of standout performances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup as he prepares for a crucial rebuilding job at Anfield.
The Spaniard, appointed after the departure of Arne Slot, faces the challenge of restoring Liverpool to the top of English football following a disappointing campaign. While the tournament offers a chance to assess potential transfer targets, it is also providing valuable insight into members of his current squad.
One player high on Iraola’s priority list is Florian Wirtz.
The Germany international arrived at Liverpool with huge expectations after his move from Bayer Leverkusen, but he struggled to consistently deliver the performances that made him one of Europe’s most sought-after attacking talents.
Against Curacao, however, Wirtz looked back to his best. The 23-year-old played a leading role in Germany’s emphatic 7-1 victory, setting up the opening goal and constantly finding pockets of space in dangerous areas.
His creativity, movement and confidence gave Liverpool supporters a reminder of the quality he possesses and strengthened hopes that Iraola can unlock his full potential next season.
There was more positive news for the Reds from Sweden’s convincing 5-1 win over Tunisia.
Alexander Isak produced one of his finest displays in recent months, scoring once and providing an assist for Viktor Gyokeres before being named man of the match.
The striker endured a frustrating season at Liverpool due to injuries and inconsistent form, but his display suggested he could once again become a central figure in the club’s attack.
With Mohamed Salah no longer at Anfield, Liverpool will need a dependable goalscorer to lead the front line, and Isak’s resurgence could not come at a better time.
Liverpool’s recruitment staff will also have taken notice of Yan Diomande’s latest World Cup performance.
The highly-rated 19-year-old winger starred as Ivory Coast defeated Ecuador 1-0, earning man-of-the-match honours after tormenting defenders throughout the contest.
Diomande’s pace, direct running and ability to create chances from wide areas have made him one of the most exciting young prospects in Europe. Liverpool are among the clubs believed to be monitoring the RB Leipzig starlet as they search for long-term attacking reinforcements.
Although reports suggest Leipzig would demand a fee in excess of £100 million, Diomande continues to strengthen the case for why so many elite clubs are tracking his progress.
Liverpool’s captain also delivered a timely reminder of his enduring importance.
Virgil van Dijk was named man of the match despite the Netherlands being held to a 2-2 draw by Japan in Dallas. While Ronald Koeman’s side were left frustrated after surrendering the lead twice, Van Dijk produced a commanding display at both ends of the pitch.
The Dutch defender, who turns 35 in July, headed his side into the lead shortly after half-time and then produced a series of crucial defensive interventions as Japan piled on late pressure in search of an equaliser.
His performance reinforced his status as one of the key figures Iraola will continue to build around during the next phase of Liverpool’s evolution.
Ryan Gravenberch also caught the eye with an influential midfield display.
The Liverpool midfielder supplied the cross that allowed Van Dijk to score and later provided another assist for Crysencio Summerville’s goal.
Gravenberch’s delivery for Van Dijk created a unique piece of Liverpool history. It marked only the second occasion in World Cup history that a goal has been both scored and assisted by Liverpool players. The first came in 1966 when Ian Callaghan set up Roger Hunt for England against France.
After enjoying a superb campaign during Liverpool’s title-winning season under Slot, Gravenberch’s display offered further evidence that he remains a crucial part of the club’s future plans.
With the World Cup continuing to showcase both established stars and emerging talent, Iraola will feel increasingly optimistic about the foundations available to him.
Wirtz demonstrated his creative brilliance, Isak rediscovered his scoring touch, Van Dijk once again led by example, Gravenberch showed his quality in midfield, while Diomande highlighted why he is one of Europe’s most coveted young attackers.
For a manager tasked with reviving Liverpool’s fortunes, the tournament is already providing several reasons to believe brighter days may be ahead.
