Liverpool demand Bradley Barcola deliver after costly criticism

Liverpool have turned their attention to Bradley Barcola after the winger drew criticism for his Wednesday night display in the 2‑1 Champions League win over Atletico Madrid, a match that kept the Reds’ European campaign alive. The £123 million signing from PSG is expected to fill the goal‑scoring void as the side prepare to host Fulham on Saturday.

Barcola’s debut and early criticism

Barcola made his debut off the bench in the 2‑0 victory over Ipswich Town last week, then earned his first start on the right wing against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday. He lasted an hour before cramping and left the match without the expected goal, despite creating two clear chances. Former Spurs star Tim Sherwood took Barcola to task, saying, “No, it wasn’t a good night.” He had a lot of opportunities. He looked a threat, but he had a few opportunities bearing down Oblak and he just couldn’t find the finish. He’s not a fantastic finisher, I have to say that.”

Andoni Iraola, impressed by his first European appearance, added: “The good thing about him is that he stretches defenders. He runs without the ball, so you don’t have to take possession of the ball and dribble. He goes, checks and makes good runs.”

Comments Sport by Chris Burns, Senior Sports Writer, published on Sep 11 2026, included View 4 Images and Image: 2026 Getty Images, highlighting the winger’s sub‑par finishing and the fans’ reaction.

Araujo’s loan and Liverpool’s options

Ronald Araujo arrived on loan from Barcelona last month with a £47 million option to buy, and has featured in all four Reds games so far, even assisting Dominik Szoboszlai’s equaliser against Atleti.

Barcelona sporting director Deco offered a cryptic response: “I don’t know if he’ll come back, let’s see. He has a contract with us. It’s very early still. He’s a player that we have a lot of respect for.”

Araujo himself said: “Liverpool is a big club like Barcelona. You have to give your best and there are high expectations. I am happy here and hungry for more.”

With the next test against Fulham on Saturday, Liverpool must convert Barcola’s £123 million investment into goals and decide whether Araujo’s £47 million option becomes permanent, while the LIVERPOOL faithful hope the Reds can sustain the momentum built from the Ipswich Town and Atletico Madrid victories.