Victor Muñoz has lifted the lid on the conversations that persuaded him to swap Osasuna for Liverpool, revealing how new head coach Andoni Iraola played a decisive role in his decision to move to Anfield.
Victor Muñoz has revealed that Andoni Iraola’s vision for Liverpool convinced him that Anfield was the perfect place to continue his rapid rise.
The Spaniard, who completed his move to Liverpool earlier this summer after a breakthrough campaign with Osasuna, has admitted he believes the Premier League is ideally suited to his game, with Iraola’s tactical plans proving crucial during talks over the transfer.
Speaking to El Correo, Muñoz explained that the Liverpool head coach outlined exactly how he would fit into his system.
“He explained a little about the way his teams play, how I could fit in, how he likes his wingers to play – staying wide, getting to the byline and working hard.
“I’ve made the right move because those are characteristics I identify with.”
The 22-year-old also revealed Iraola made it clear he viewed him as an ideal fit for Liverpool’s high-intensity style.
“He told me that because of the way his teams play, the way they press and how he wants them to perform, I’m a player whose characteristics fit what he’s looking for.
“That’s another reason why I decided to take this step.”
Premier League feels the perfect fit
Muñoz admitted Liverpool’s interest initially came as a surprise after a remarkable rise that has taken him from Real Madrid Castilla to the World Cup and Anfield in little over a year,
The winger also sheds light on why England is the perfect move for him and why the Premier League came at the right time.
“You see it as something very far away because it’s such a huge club, but it was a great feeling.
“I think the Premier League is the place that suits me because of my qualities and the way I play. I think taking this next step was the right decision.”
Rapid rise continues
Muñoz’s development has been one of European football’s success stories over the last 12 months.
After leaving Real Madrid Castilla to join Osasuna, he enjoyed a breakout campaign before earning both a Liverpool move and a place in Spain’s World Cup squad.
Reflecting on how quickly everything has happened, he admitted even he has struggled to believe it.
“A year ago I was at Real Madrid Castilla. Then I joined Osasuna, now I’m at the World Cup and I’ve signed for Liverpool.
“No, I never imagined it.”
Injury recovery nearing its end
Muñoz is still working his way back from the injury that interrupted the end of his club season, but revealed he is finally closing in on full fitness.
“Now I’m training and feeling better, and that’s the important thing if I want to get back onto the pitch as soon as possible.”
Author’s View: Muñoz’s excitement can be shared throughout the fanbase
The Liverpool forward has yet to make his World Cup debut but remains hopeful of playing a part if Spain continue their run in the tournament.
For Liverpool supporters, however, perhaps the biggest takeaway from the interview is the confidence Muñoz already has in Iraola’s project.
Having spoken extensively with the Reds boss before completing his move, the Spaniard believes both his style of play and his mentality are perfectly suited to Liverpool’s new era under the Basque coach.
