Andoni Iraola Press Conference: Manchester City

Liverpool wilted after Ryan Gravenberch’s red card, but Manager Iraola is still proud of his players.

Andoni Iraola stuck by his players after Ryan Gravenberch’s controversial red card caused them to lose 3-0 to Manchester City at Anfield.

The Reds had been building momentum before their midfielder was dismissed for a second bookable offence in the 62nd minute. Gravenberch had been having the best game of his season so far and Iraola didn’t agree with the decision to send him off.

The Liverpool manager said:

“The first one is not a yellow. Anderson carries on a couple of steps; he wasn’t even going to give a foul. I’ve no idea why he gives a yellow card. We have like nine players behind the ball."

Manchester City quickly punished the Reds with quickfire goals from Erling Haaland and Jeremy Doku and Iraola outlined the difficulties his side faced.

“It’s already difficult to press them when it’s 11v11, but with one less, it becomes a different game and then we concede straight away before making a substitution. You have to play differently when you’re 1-0 down.”

Earlier in his post-match press conference Iraola said:

 “I think it is obvious. We’ve played two games today. One game until the 60th minute and then another game after the red card. We were the best team in the first game and then they were better.”

The Liverpool manager then went on to praise his team and the atmosphere at Anfield:

“I feel very proud of the players today. It was not easy. They have been at the level in terms of intensity and winning duels. 

“The supporters today have been top level. Exemplary from the beginning when we arrived. The red card was in our best moment. Even after, they valued the effort of the players.