Liverpool may have suffered a 4-2 defeat against Leeds United in preseason, but the final score tells only part of the story. While the second-half collapse grabbed the headlines, the opening 45 minutes offered supporters plenty of reasons to be optimistic.
With most of the first-choice players on the pitch, Arne Iraola’s tactical ideas became much clearer, and no player benefited more than Florian Wirtz. The German international finally looked comfortable in a role that maximized his strengths, giving fans an exciting glimpse of what Liverpool could become this season.
One of the biggest talking points from the match was Wirtz’s position in Iraola’s 4-2-3-1 setup. Rather than dropping deep to collect possession throughout the game, he was allowed to operate as a free attacking midfielder, spending most of his time between the opposition’s midfield and defensive lines.
That subtle adjustment made a noticeable difference.
In previous systems, Wirtz often had to carry the ball from deeper areas, absorb physical challenges, and help with the team’s buildup. While he is capable of doing those jobs, they often reduced his effectiveness closer to goal.
Against Leeds, he was given far more freedom to focus on what he does best—finding pockets of space, making intelligent late runs, delivering decisive passes, and arriving in dangerous scoring positions. His goal reflected exactly that type of movement.
Many fans following preseason action through 12B Sports felt this was the version of Wirtz they had been waiting to see since his arrival at Anfield.
Beyond Wirtz’s individual display, Liverpool’s overall structure looked far more balanced.
The team’s shape remained compact throughout the first half. Wide players consistently stretched the field, central midfielders controlled the rhythm, and the attacking midfielder linked play without overcrowding areas. Although players naturally rotated positions, every movement appeared coordinated rather than random.
That organization was sometimes missing last season, when players occasionally drifted into similar spaces and disrupted the team’s attacking flow. Iraola’s approach seems much simpler in design but far more effective in execution.
Every player appears to understand their responsibilities, allowing quicker decision-making and smoother transitions between defense and attack.
Supporters discussing the performance on 12B Sports highlighted how much more cohesive Liverpool looked despite only being in preseason.
The match changed dramatically after halftime.
Liverpool introduced an entirely different lineup, featuring numerous academy prospects and fringe players. Unsurprisingly, the chemistry dropped, defensive mistakes increased, and Leeds capitalized by scoring four unanswered goals.
While losing is never ideal, preseason matches are rarely judged solely by the result. Coaches often prioritize evaluating different players, testing tactical ideas, and improving fitness rather than protecting a lead.
For Liverpool, the first-half performance carried far more significance than the final scoreline.
The pressing was coordinated, passing combinations were quicker, and attacking movements looked more purposeful. Instead of relying on individual brilliance, the team created chances through collective movement and positional discipline.
Analysts covering preseason football on 12B Sports have pointed out that these are encouraging signs of a team gradually adapting to a new coaching philosophy.
It would be premature to draw major conclusions from one friendly, but there are enough positive indicators to generate excitement.
Wirtz already appears more comfortable in Iraola’s tactical framework. The midfield seems better connected, attacking roles are clearly defined, and Liverpool’s overall structure looks more stable than it did during parts of last season.
Of course, there is still work to do. Defensive organization will need improvement, particularly when squad rotation occurs, and players will require more time to fully understand the demands of the new system.
Even so, the foundation appears promising.
If Iraola continues refining this 4-2-3-1 setup while allowing creative players like Wirtz to thrive in their natural roles, Liverpool could become a far more dynamic side once the competitive campaign begins.
For football supporters following the club’s progress on 12B Sports, this preseason performance may be remembered less for the defeat itself and more as the first real glimpse of a tactical identity capable of taking Liverpool to another level.
