Nyoni outlines new Liverpool plan and what he really thought of last season

Nyoni was in the matchday squad for 29 out of 38 top-flight games but was limited to just six substitute appearances, the longest of which came on the final day against Brentford when he was introduced in the 83rd minute.

The 19-year-old midfielder also had limited outings from the bench in the Champions League and FA Cup but did start both of the League Cup games last term under previous boss Arne Slot.

Nyoni has now made 20 appearances for the Reds having been given his debut by Jurgen Klopp in February 2024 just days after being picking up his first medal as an unused substitute in the League Cup final triumph over Chelsea.

And he said of his experience last season: “I know sometimes on the outside it looks like it wasn't as great and obviously as a football player you want to play more, but I think last season for me was a very good learning year.

“(It was) a good development year and an introduction into what it's like to be in the first team. So, I think this season (the aim) is just keep progressing and just keep pushing, but obviously it all starts now with pre-season.

“That's the most important thing at the minute and then the season will follow.”

Nyoni has featured prominently in the last two pre-seasons and is expected to be given regular minutes during the United States tour, with Liverpool jetting out on Monday to prepare for games against Sunderland, Leeds United and Wrexham.

And the teenager is keen to impress new head coach Andoni Iraola in the absence of the Reds' eight-strong World Cup contingent.

“It's exciting times ahead," said Nyoni. "It’s been good to be back and to see everyone again and I’m ready to go.

“There are still a few players away so obviously there’s an opportunity to play and just show what I can do in that sense. But I'll just go out there and just enjoy it and just try to do my best.”

Of Iraola, Nyoni said to liverpoolfc.com: “He’s very friendly, he’s very welcoming to everyone and I think he communicates quite well. Managers will always have their different styles, it's just about us adapting to it. But it is exciting.

“At the minute I'm just focused on performing as well as I can in training and games, and just trying to enjoy my football as well. I think that's the most important thing because if you enjoy your football then you'll perform better.”