Florian Wirtz has expressed his excitement about working under new Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola, insisting that he is enjoying the Spaniard’s ideas despite the Reds suffering a 3-2 pre-season defeat to AS Monaco at Anfield. Liverpool’s latest friendly provided plenty of encouragement for the club as preparations continue for the new season, even though the result ultimately went in Monaco’s favour. Wirtz was one of the standout performers for Liverpool, continuing his promising start under Iraola by scoring for the second consecutive game. The German international operated in an advanced No. 10 role and appeared comfortable in the attacking system being introduced by the new manager. ### Wirtz enjoying Iraola's approach Despite Liverpool's defeat, Wirtz was positive when discussing the new manager's football philosophy. The midfielder pointed to Iraola's successful spell at Bournemouth and said he had already seen what the Spanish coach could achieve with a team. Wirtz explained that although he had only spent around two weeks training under Iraola, he was already enjoying the experience and liked the manager's ideas about football. The comments will provide encouragement for Liverpool supporters who are eager to see how the team develops under its new manager. ### Liverpool take early lead Liverpool made a strong start against Monaco at Anfield. Alexander Isak opened the scoring in the 16th minute before Wirtz doubled Liverpool's advantage in the 29th minute. The German's goal was another positive moment in his pre-season preparations and marked his second consecutive match on the scoresheet. Liverpool's early performance suggested that Iraola's attacking ideas were beginning to take shape, with the Reds showing intensity and fluid movement during the opening period. However, Monaco managed to respond before half-time when Aleksandr Golovin converted a penalty in the 44th minute. ### Monaco complete the comeback The visitors continued to put pressure on Liverpool after the break and eventually levelled the match through Mika Biereth in the 56th minute. Liverpool made a number of substitutions as the second half progressed, with young players and new arrivals given opportunities to gain valuable minutes. The changes affected Liverpool's rhythm and cohesion, allowing Monaco to grow into the game. The French side completed the comeback late in the match when George Ilenikhena Brunner scored in the 88th minute, securing a 3-2 victory for Monaco. ### Result not the main focus Although losing at Anfield will not have been the outcome Liverpool wanted, the match was primarily part of the club's pre-season preparations. Friendly matches provide managers with an opportunity to assess players, experiment with tactical systems and give different members of the squad playing time. For Iraola, the match offered another chance to evaluate how his players are adapting to his approach. The first-half performance, in particular, provided signs that the new system can produce attacking opportunities, while the second half highlighted areas that still require improvement. ### Wirtz continues to impress For Wirtz personally, the match represented another encouraging step. The midfielder arrived at Liverpool with enormous expectations following his high-profile transfer, and his performances during pre-season are being closely monitored. His ability to operate between the lines and create attacking opportunities makes him an important part of Iraola's plans. Scoring in consecutive matches should also provide confidence as Wirtz continues to adapt to his new manager and teammates. The German's comments suggest that he is comfortable with the role Iraola is asking him to play and is enthusiastic about the direction of the team. ### Iraola begins new Liverpool era Iraola's appointment represents a new chapter for Liverpool following the departure of Arne Slot. The Spanish manager arrives with a reputation for developing an energetic style of football and previously impressed during his time in charge of Bournemouth. His challenge at Liverpool will be significantly greater, with the club expected to compete for major domestic and European honours. The early stages of pre-season are therefore particularly important as Iraola attempts to establish his tactical identity and ensure that the squad understands his expectations. ### Plenty still to improve The defeat to Monaco also highlighted areas Liverpool will need to address before competitive football begins. The Reds were unable to protect a two-goal advantage and conceded three times after taking control of the match. While substitutions and squad rotation played a role, the defensive issues will still provide Iraola with useful information ahead of the new campaign. The manager will have further opportunities to work with the squad during pre-season and make adjustments before Liverpool's competitive fixtures begin. ### Wirtz gives supporters encouragement Wirtz's positive assessment of Iraola's approach is nevertheless an encouraging sign for Liverpool. Players adapting quickly to a manager's tactical ideas can make the transition between coaching regimes considerably smoother. With Wirtz already producing goals and showing enthusiasm for the system, Liverpool supporters will hope that the midfielder can build on his performances when the competitive season begins. The Monaco defeat may have prevented Liverpool from finishing the evening with a victory, but the performance provided several positives for Iraola to take forward. ### Looking ahead Liverpool's pre-season preparations will continue as Iraola works to develop his preferred style and establish the team's strongest combinations. For Wirtz, the immediate priority will be continuing to understand his role while building relationships with his new teammates. His praise for Iraola suggests that the midfielder is already buying into the manager's philosophy. With the competitive season approaching, Liverpool will be hoping that the positive elements shown against Monaco can be developed while the defensive weaknesses are addressed. For now, despite the 3-2 defeat, Wirtz remains enthusiastic about the direction Liverpool are heading under Iraola — a promising sign as the club begins a new era at Anfield.