Andoni Iraola Confirms Jeremy Jacquet's Return Ahead of Liverpool's Como Friendlies

Jeremy Jacquet Set for Liverpool Debut After Injury

Andoni Iraola, Liverpool's head coach, has announced that Jeremy Jacquet is on track to make his first appearance for the club this pre-season. The French defender, signed from Rennes for a fee reported up to £60 million, had been sidelined due to a shoulder injury but is expected to feature in Liverpool’s upcoming matches against Como.

Jacquet's Pre-Season Absence and Recovery

Liverpool fans have yet to see their new defensive signing in action after Jacquet missed the early pre-season games, including a narrow 3-2 loss to Monaco at Anfield. The 21-year-old spent the past week training separately from the squad as he continued rehabilitation following shoulder surgery sustained earlier this year.

After the Monaco game, Iraola explained the cautious approach: "We were unsure about picking him today, so we decided against it. But he should be ready for the next match." This suggests the club’s medical staff are confident in Jacquet’s recovery, paving the way for his debut in the double-header against Como.

Careful Management Due to Past Injury

The decision to hold Jacquet back stems from his recent shoulder operation, which occurred soon after Liverpool agreed on his transfer in January. Although he showed promise during early pre-season training, discomfort led the club to prioritize his health, especially given the recent injury to Joe Gomez.

Defensive Depth Concerns and Reinforcements

The timing of Jacquet’s return is critical as Liverpool’s defense has faced challenges recently. In the Monaco friendly, only Virgil van Dijk and Ifeanyi Ndukwe were available specialist centre-backs. Fans have expressed concerns over the limited senior options, although Ndukwe’s summer performances have been encouraging.

Further strengthening is underway, with Liverpool securing a loan deal for Barcelona’s Ronald Araujo, adding high-quality cover and competition to the backline.

Jacquet shared his enthusiasm about training alongside the captain: "At Liverpool, apart from Virgil van Dijk nearing the end of his career, training with him is going to be huge. He's going to teach me so much. Training with guys like that doesn't get any better than that."

Final Pre-Season Matches Against Como

Liverpool’s preparation for the new season will conclude with two games against Como next Sunday. There will be a closed-door match at the AXA Training Centre at noon, followed by a public friendly at 6pm.

Iraola is likely to use the evening game as a final rehearsal for the Premier League opener. Jacquet might receive playing time in the earlier session to regain match fitness without the pressure of an audience.

• Upcoming Matches:
• Arsenal vs. Como - 12 August 2026, 20:30
• Liverpool vs. Como - 16 August 2026, 13:00