Liverpool’s difficult start to the season continued as the reigning Premier League champions were held to a 2–2 draw by Nottingham Forest at Anfield. The result means new head coach Andoni Iraola has begun his league tenure with consecutive draws, while Forest also remain without a victory.
Forest took the lead in the 24th minute through Dan Ndoye, who finished his first Premier League goal in a year. Liverpool responded after halftime when Alexander Isak scored in the 60th minute to level the match.
Morgan Gibbs-White restored Forest’s advantage from the penalty spot in the 70th minute after Neco Williams was brought down inside the area. Liverpool rescued a point when Víctor Muñoz produced a powerful finish in the 82nd minute.
The draw extended Liverpool’s run of opening results to two points from two matches. Although the champions remain unbeaten, their performances have lacked the control and defensive security expected from a title-winning side.
The absence of Ryan Gravenberch from the starting lineup prompted questions about Liverpool’s midfield structure. Alexis Mac Allister continued to provide composure and intensity, but some observers believe Dominik Szoboszlai could be more effective in the advanced midfield role, with Mac Allister partnering a younger player in a deeper position.
Liverpool’s full-backs also faced criticism. Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong offer attacking quality, but their defensive positioning has left the team vulnerable during transitions. The coaching staff may consider using Kostas Tsimikas more often to provide greater defensive stability.
The result also highlighted Liverpool’s reliance on new attacking signings. Isak scored his first goal for the club and is still building his fitness after a long-term injury, while Florian Wirtz continues to adapt to the physical demands of English football. Wirtz had a goal ruled out by VAR during the match.
Liverpool’s attack remains in transition after the departure of Mohamed Salah. The club have agreed a deal to sign Bradley Barcola from Paris Saint-Germain for up to £123 million, while Cody Gakpo’s future is uncertain amid interest from Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur.
The arrival of Barcola should provide more pace and directness on the left, but it will also increase competition for places. Liverpool must now find an effective balance between their expensive new signings and the players already familiar with the club’s system.
Two draws are not yet a crisis, but the champions have already dropped four points. The defensive issues and lack of midfield control must be addressed quickly, particularly with European fixtures adding to the schedule.
Liverpool’s next matches will provide a clearer indication of whether the early uncertainty is temporary or a sign of deeper structural problems. Iraola’s priority will be to improve the team’s defensive organization and ensure that the new-look attack begins producing more consistent performances.
