Sunderland defender Dan Ballard noticed a 'big difference' in Liverpool under new manager Andoni Iraola compared to Arne Slot. The Black Cats lost 4-2 to the Reds in a pre-season friendly on Saturday, with Iraola's aggressive pressing and direct attacking style standing out.
What changed for Liverpool?
Ballard explained that Iraola's Liverpool were more intense and vertical than Slot's possession-based team. 'They’re very aggressive in the press, they play very vertically and they go straight for goal,' he said. The defender also noted that Liverpool gave Sunderland more time on the ball last season under Slot, which surprised him.
Why it matters for Sunderland
The pre-season clash gave Sunderland a glimpse of the Premier League's evolving tactics. Liverpool's new approach, with 42 goals scored and 48 conceded last season (final 2025 table: 7th, 54 pts), shows how top teams are adapting. Ballard's observations highlight the challenges Championship sides face when testing themselves against elite opposition.
What comes next?
Sunderland will look to bounce back from their pre-season loss when they face Leeds at home on July 30. Meanwhile, Liverpool continue their preparations with a match against Wrexham United in New York on July 29. Iraola's debut was marred by Joe Gomez's early injury, adding to Liverpool's defensive concerns with Jeremy Jacquet and Giovanni Leoni also sidelined.
