Iraola relishes first European night at Anfield as Liverpool face Atletico in a “proper contest”

In partnership with

Football Muse

·9 September 2026

Iraola relishes first European night at Anfield as Liverpool face Atletico in a “proper contest”

Andoni Iraola has said Liverpool versus Atletico Madrid would be a 'big game at any stage' of the Champions League.

Liverpool begin their Champions League campaign against Atletico Madrid at Anfield tonight, in what will be Iraola's first experience of European football.

OneFootball Videos

The Reds remain unbeaten under the new head coach, ahead of a tough test against a familiar opponent. Liverpool opened last season'sChampions League campaign against Atletico, scoring a stoppage-time winner in a 3-2 win.

Ahead of the game, Iraola said he can't wait to experience a European night at Anfield for the first time.

“One of the questions I have been asked most since coming to Liverpool is how much I am looking forward to my first European night at Anfield,” Iraola writes inhis matchday programme notes.

“It is one of those questions that does not really require too much of a response because this is the kind of occasion that speaks for itself.

“The way I look at it is simple – this is a tradition and an experience that we have to embrace. It is not something that we can just expect to happen. Maybe there are elements that we can take for granted; the darkness, the floodlights, the time of day and so on. But the rest has to be created on the night itself – by people and by passion.

“This is our responsibility. We know what the legacy of this club is and we know the impact it can have, so we have to use this knowledge to inspire us."

“Liverpool versus Atletico Madrid means something” — Iraola promises a “proper contest and a big test” at Anfield

Iraola said Atletico will pose a real challenge to his side and said the fixture would be a massive occasion at any stage of the Champions League.

“This would be a big game at any stage. It does not need to be a particular round, as all of the ingredients are in place for a proper contest and a big test. Liverpool versus Atletico Madrid means something and I have no doubt this will show on the pitch.”