Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher expressed significant dissatisfaction with the team’s tactical setup during their 2-2 draw against Newcastle United on Sunday, August 23. The match marked the Premier League opener for both sides, with Carragher taking to social media to criticize the midfield performance, stating, “I said it before a competitive ball was kicked.”
The contest at St. James’ Park saw Newcastle take an early lead through Anthony Elanga within the first five minutes. While Cody Gakpo leveled the score five minutes into the second half, the parity was short-lived as Joe Willock restored the hosts’ advantage just two minutes later. Despite dominating possession with 60% of the ball and registering 27 attempts on goal, Liverpool struggled to establish control for much of the match.
The result nearly marked a losing start for new manager Andoni Iraola, but a dramatic 99th-minute penalty from Dominik Szoboszlai secured a point for the visitors. The spot-kick was awarded after Victor Munoz was fouled by Lewis Hall, ensuring the spoils were shared after Liverpool had trailed for over 90 minutes of total play. Gakpo stood out as a notable performer for the Reds, though his long-term future at Anfield remains subject to speculation amid links to Tottenham Hotspur.
This opening-day performance follows a difficult 2024-25 season, where the 2025 Premier League champions finished in a disappointing fifth place. That campaign ended without a trophy and saw the departure of former manager Arne Slot, setting the stage for Iraola’s current tenure. Looking ahead, Liverpool will aim to secure their first victory of the new campaign when they host Nottingham Forest on Saturday, August 29. The report also notes that the Reds struggled to assert their ascendancy for large swathes despite enjoying 60% possession and having a whopping 27 attempts on goal. The report also notes that iraola’s side will look to return to winning ways for the first time in the new campaign when they next take on Nottingham Forest at home on Saturday (August 29).
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