Lewis Koumas looking to impress Iraola this pre-season
Lewis Koumas says he is looking to impress new Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola during pre-season in Chicago, hoping his pressing and energy earn him Premier League minutes after Championship loans at Birmingham and Hull, where he helped secure promotion. The Wales international, covered in our Celebrity Breaking News hub, told Liverpool FC he will "see where it takes me."
Key Takeaways
- Lewis Koumas is part of Andoni Iraola's pre-season squad after 2025-26 Championship loans at Birmingham City and Hull City.
- He contributed to Hull's promotion to the Premier League, including the Wembley play-off final.
- The 20-year-old Wales forward wants to play for Liverpool in the Premier League but stays open to further development.
- He believes his pressing and energy could suit Iraola's intensity-focused style.
What did Lewis Koumas say about impressing Andoni Iraola?
Speaking after a morning training session in Chicago, Koumas said the sessions have been positive as the squad adapts to the new gaffer. Asked whether a clean slate gives him an edge, he pointed to traits that may fit Iraola.
"I think I'm a player that the gaffer could sort of like, with the way I press and the energy I can give to the team," he said. "I'm always looking to impress so I'll just see where it takes me."
His stated target is clear: Premier League minutes with Liverpool. If that path does not open, he said he remains focused on developing and improving his game.
How did last season's loans shape Lewis Koumas?
Koumas spent 2025-26 on loan in the Championship, first with Birmingham City and then with Hull City. He described a tough start that became a strong finish once he linked up with Hull.
"I learned a lot from Hull and obviously we got promoted, which is a massive achievement," he said. On Hull's Wembley day, he called Oli McBurnie's winning moment "unbelievable" for the club as it returned to the Premier League.
Away from the pitch on tour, he said younger players are bonding by chilling out and playing cards, noting a longstanding friendship with Trey Nyoni from their shared academy pathway.
Could Lewis Koumas earn a first-team role this season?
At 20, Koumas is trying to turn potential into usefulness under Iraola. Analysts note that the coach values aggression and work without the ball, traits Koumas highlighted himself.
He can operate across the forward line as a versatile option, though left-wing depth at Liverpool means any role may depend on flexibility and end product. With Jayden Danns reportedly unlikely to feature much due to injury, some observers see an opening for the Wales international in friendlies, including against Sunderland in Nashville.
Whether he stays for Premier League minutes or moves on again, Koumas framed the summer simply: impress, develop, and see where it takes him.