This article was updated on 22 September 2026 with Andoni Iraola’s full reaction after Liverpool’s 2-0 Premier League win at Ipswich Town. The win gave Liverpool real belief, and Iraola’s reaction afterwards captured that mood. It remains Liverpool’s first league victory of the season, and they left Portman Road with real momentum. Alexander Isak’s first-half brace did the early damage, while Alexis Mac Allister’s return to midfield gave Iraola plenty to praise once the final whistle went.
Iraola reflects on Liverpool victory at Ipswich Town
Andoni Iraola sounded relieved and pleased in equal measure after watching Liverpool finally collect three points in the league. Liverpool had made a stuttering start to the campaign, and Iraola was quick to credit the players for turning that around against Ipswich Town. The 2-0 scoreline settled any lingering nerves inside the away dressing room.
For Iraola, the result was about more than just the goals. It offered proof that the selection changes, and the balance struck in midfield, were working as intended.
Isak brace seals Premier League win at Portman Road
Alexander Isak provided the difference in the first half, scoring twice to put the game out of Ipswich’s reach before the break. The brace took his tally to three goals in three Premier League appearances this season, a return that has quickly made him central to discussions about Liverpool’s attack.
It continues a strong run in front of goal that began with Isak’s decisive strike on the road earlier in the campaign, and Iraola made clear afterwards that he expects the goals to keep coming.
My demands will probably not be about the goals; I know he is fit and in good shape. He’s going to produce the numbers.
Iraola then explained what he actually wants to see from Isak beyond his finishing.
My fight with him will be more about other stuff, how to help the team in other situations – but it is good he has already played two full games, scoring the goals, so I am very happy to have him.
Mac Allister restored to midfield alongside Gravenberch and Nyoni
Alexis Mac Allister returned to Liverpool’s starting eleven at Ipswich, taking the place of Ryan Gravenberch in central midfield. It proved a change that paid off, with Iraola singling out the Argentine’s reading of the game once full time was called.
Mac Allister had missed out on the confirmed lineup against Bournemouth before winning his place back for the trip to Suffolk.
I think Mac Allister is a smart player. He understands very well the positioning. He played very well today.
Mac Allister picked up a caution during the second half, and Iraola admitted he considered taking him off as a precaution. In the end he trusted the players who came on, Trey Nyoni and Gravenberch, to help see the game out safely.
I was a little bit worried with the yellow card; he was playing well, and I thought maybe I change him, but I also think that how we finished with Trey [Nyoni] and Gravenberch, they did well.
What Iraola said about Isak and Mac Allister after Ipswich win
Iraola’s verdict on the two standout performers was simple. Isak is now producing consistently in front of goal, and Mac Allister brings intelligence and control to the middle of the pitch. Asked directly about Isak’s impact, Iraola did not hesitate.
He’s a massive player for us
Iraola also touched on the strength in depth now on show in midfield, with Mac Allister, Gravenberch and Nyoni all competing for places.
I think we have good options. It depends on the opposition; it depends on the legs.
Fuller detail on those exchanges can be found in our original report on Iraola’s post-match comments, published shortly after the final whistle at Portman Road.
What happens next
Liverpool will hope this win at Ipswich marks a turning point after a difficult opening spell of fixtures. Isak’s form in front of goal and Mac Allister’s return to midfield give the club encouraging signs to build on, and Iraola’s own comments after the match reflected that optimism.
No further team news or fixture details have been confirmed since this win, but Iraola’s comments suggest both players will remain important figures as Liverpool try to build on their first league victory of the season.
