Liverpool star could be given a second chance under Andoni Iraola – Opinion | OneFootball

Liverpool Must Not Give Up on Curtis Jones Yet

As Liverpool begin a new chapter under Andoni Iraola, one player whose future deserves careful consideration is Curtis Jones.

The former academy graduate enters the summer with just one year remaining on his current contract and, after a frustrating campaign under Arne Slot, uncertainty surrounds what comes next.

For much of the season, Jones appeared to fall out of favour with the Dutchman. Opportunities became increasingly limited, his role within the squad seemed unclear, and speculation linking him with a move away from Anfield only intensified as the months passed.

Inter Milan were heavily linked during the winter transfer window, with reports suggesting a move came close to materialising before ultimately failing to reach completion.

Now the season is over.

Liverpool have changed manager.

And Jones finds himself at a crossroads.

Sitting at home while the world’s best players compete on the international stage, reflection will undoubtedly be taking place. At 25 years old, he is entering the years that should represent the peak of his career. The next contract he signs could define the remainder of his time at the highest level.

That is precisely why Liverpool should be proactive.

Rather than allowing the situation to drift toward the final twelve months of his deal, Richard Hughes and Michael Edwards should be looking to secure Jones on a new long-term contract.

The arrival of Iraola could transform his prospects.

The Spaniard demands energy, pressing, aggression, and technical quality in midfield. Those are all attributes that Jones naturally possesses when utilised correctly. His ability to carry possession, protect the ball under pressure, and drive through central areas could become extremely valuable within a more intense and dynamic system.

Under Slot, Jones often looked like a player searching for clarity.

Under Iraola, he may finally rediscover purpose.

Liverpool’s Midfield Rebuild Needs Stability

Liverpool’s midfield could undergo significant change over the coming months.

Wataru Endo’s future appears uncertain following injury concerns and growing speculation regarding a departure. Alexis Mac Allister continues to be linked with Real Madrid, while the recruitment department is exploring additions capable of bringing greater athleticism and physical presence to the squad.

Names such as Lamine Camara and Mateus Fernandes have already emerged as potential targets.

Both players would add the bite, aggression, and defensive intensity that Liverpool lacked throughout much of last season.

However, strengthening the midfield should not automatically mean discarding players already at the club.

Jones remains a valuable asset.

In many ways, he offers similar qualities to Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott, another player frequently linked with a move to Merseyside. Both are technically gifted, capable of progressing possession, and comfortable operating in multiple midfield roles.

If Liverpool ultimately prioritise more forceful profiles such as Camara or Fernández, retaining Jones becomes even more important.

Squads require balance.

Not every midfielder needs to be a destroyer.

Not every player needs to be an athlete first and footballer second.

Jones provides technical control, composure, and versatility. More importantly, he understands Liverpool. He understands the expectations, the pressure, and the culture of the club.

Those qualities should not be overlooked during a summer of change.

Liverpool’s academy has produced a player capable of contributing to the first team for many years to come. Allowing him to leave because of one difficult season under a departing manager would feel unnecessarily short-sighted.

The club are rebuilding.

The squad is evolving.

And a fresh start under Iraola could prove beneficial for many players.

Curtis Jones should be one of them.

Before Liverpool spend another £80 million searching for answers elsewhere, they should remember that one of the solutions may already be sitting in their dressing room.