Andoni IraIraIra, Liverpool coach, expressed his deep disappointment after the 0-1 defeat against Arsenal led by his former teammate Mikel Arteta. The result, which left the “Reds” in fifth position in the Premier League, 9 points behind the “Gunners”, caused the coach to criticize a refereeing decision that he considered decisive for the outcome of the match.
Liverpool had entered the match on a run of five consecutive wins and with the intention of closing the gap on leaders Arsenal. Despite constant pressure and several clear opportunities, the team failed to complete its attacks. IraIra noted that “there was a shot against the crossbar, a header from Alexis Mac Allister, and a clear penalty on AlexanderIsak that was not awarded.” The coach explained that the referee did not see the “grabbing by the shirt” and that the player did not fall to the ground, which, according to him, justified the lack of sanction.
“I loved the team's reaction when Havertz scored,” the coach said, but added that the lack of precision in the execution of the plays was a key factor. “We did enough to score, but we couldn't finish,” he said. In a tone that reflected his frustration, IraIra indicated that in the future he will instruct his players to “dive” when they have the opportunity, although he acknowledged that the shame of not having done so at that time is great.
Liverpool, which occupies fifth position, is 9 points behind Arsenal and 4 points behind Chelsea, led by Xabi Alonso. The result also affects the club's position in the group stage of the Champions League, where they already have a full record of wins and occupy third place in their group, with a visit to Fenerbahçe scheduled for the fourth day of the league stage.
With the defeat, Liverpool will have to rethink their strategy for the next Premier League and Champions League games. IraIra has underlined the need to improve execution at key moments and to maintain pressure on rivals to avoid a repeat of similar situations in the future.