Andoni Iraola praises Ronald Araujo following Liverpool win over Atletico Madrid

Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has praised defender Ronald Araujo for his performance during a 2-1 Champions League victory against Atletico Madrid at Anfield. The Uruguay international, currently on loan from Barcelona, provided the assist for the equalizer scored by Dominik Szoboszlai. This victory marked the club's opening match of the European campaign after falling behind early in the contest. Iraola highlighted the defender's contributions at right-back, noting his defensive awareness and offensive impact. Liverpool maintains an option to finalize a permanent transfer for the 27-year-old at the conclusion of the campaign for £47 million. Iraola expressed his desire to keep the player at the club, citing his rapid adjustment to the team and his successful transition into a defensive role unfamiliar to his standard position.

• 7:45 AMYahoo Sports — Iraola hails “very, very good” Araujo and urges Liverpool to seal £47m permanent deal