Andoni Iraola, Liverpool's new head coach, has explained his philosophy of collective effort over individual glory, framing it as the key to Basque and Spanish football's dominance across club and international trophies. Speaking during Liverpool's pre-season tour in Chicago, he argued that Spain's lack of standout individual athletes in solo sports is offset by exceptional success in team sports, crediting a culture that prioritises the group over personal accolades. This mindset, he suggests, will underpin his approach to restoring identity and belief at Anfield.

Iraola pointed to Spain's 2026 World Cup-winning midfielder Rodri, who won player of the tournament despite no goals or assists, as emblematic of this team-first ethos. He also declined to discuss the courteous letter he sent Liverpool in January 2014 turning down a move under Brendan Rodgers while captain of Athletic Club, saying he preferred to earn respect through results rather than reference the story so early in his Liverpool tenure. Four managers from the small Basque region of Gipuzkoa, including Iraola, will lead Premier League clubs next season, reflecting the broader trend he describes.