Victor Munoz could be a world champion when he finally arrives at Liverpool as Andoni Iraola’s first signing as Reds head coach.
The Spaniard has had a frustrating summer while away at the World Cup with Spain, failing to play a single minute for La Roja so far, but it could yet end in glory.
Once Sunday’s showpiece in New Jersey is out of the way, however, the real stuff can begin for Munoz as he embarks on a career at Liverpool which few people saw coming.
How excited are you by Liverpool’s surprise signing of Victor Munoz?
And what do you think his role will be next season? Is he an immediate starter?
Since his arrival was confirmed in late June, Liverpool fans have not been able to see anything of Munoz at all, but the 23-year-old comes highly-rated, and clearly has the confidence of Iraola.
The Basque confirmed that once again on Friday, as he shared his first impression of his young compatriot during an interview with Stan Sport.
Munoz’s ambition make him a top signing for Liverpool
Iraola’s input was reportedly vital in snatching Munoz away from Newcastle and bringing him to Merseyside this summer.
And when asked about his young arrival, the coach’s excitement is clear, and Liverpool fans should join his enthusiasm over what Iraola describes as a ‘humble but ambitious’ player ready to take the next step.
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“Victor also is a player that I know very well. He can play both wings and I think he has the tools, the mentality,” he said.
“When I talked to the player I knew he’s still humble but ambitious and and I think it’s it’s going to be a very good addition for us.”
Munoz sounds like the ideal character for Liverpool
If a player signs for Liverpool, you expect that his footballing abilities will be top-notch. However, what can really make the difference is in their mentality.
Not to put undue pressure on Munoz, but he can take a lot from looking at what Mohamed Salah did in that regard when he first joined the Reds nine years ago.
Salah was perhaps not the most refined winger in 2018, but what he had was a drive and a hunger to get the absolute most out of himself. If Munoz has that same vision, then he will go very far at Liverpool.
Before he left, Salah expressed a worry that the Reds do not perhaps possess players with the same mentality to get to the top and stay there. As a result, it is vital that any new arrivals this summer bring that attitude with them.
Iraola’s first impression suggests that Munoz will do exactly that, and it is that, before you even look at the on-pitch ability, which could make him the perfect addition for Liverpool.
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