Liverpool's Iraola Confirms Barcola's Cramps, Not Injury

Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola confirmed that winger Bradley Barcola suffered from cramps rather than a serious calf injury during Liverpool’s 2-1 Champions League victory over Atletico Madrid on September 9. Barcola, who was making his full debut, pulled up holding his left calf in the 60th minute, raising concerns about a potential injury.

Iraola explained to TNT Sports that Barcola had been brought into action without any pre-season minutes at Paris Saint-Germain prior to his £123 million transfer to Liverpool. He stated, “No, just cramps, especially with Bradley,” indicating that they were rushing him back into play.

Iraola praised Barcola’s performance, noting he looked dangerous and created two clear chances against Atletico goalkeeper Jan Oblak. The manager also acknowledged the team's character in coming from behind to win, while emphasizing the need for improvement in their match starts, stating, “This is the Champions League; you don’t have easy games.”.