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Liverpool finished its pre-season preparations ahead of the new season with a double header of friendlies against Athletic Bilbao at Anfield.
The Reds won the first 4-1, with youngsters Rio Ngumoha and Ben Doak the standout performers, while a stronger XI won the second match 3-2. Mohamed Salah netted early in the latter game, before a second-half brace ensured the Reds ended the summer with a victory.
But with Virgil van Dijk out with a minor injury and Joe Gomez and Conor Bradley missing with knocks, there was still a certain unorthodox feeling to the team, and Wataru Endo played a heart of defense. Here's who impressed in the win at Anfield.
Hugo Ekitike
If fans approached Monday's game unsure about the Frenchman and whether he's ready to play for one of the world's best sides, they're unlikely to share the same unease upon its conclusion. Seeing Ekitike in the flesh, his physicality stands out; he's tall, but accelerates rapid and has a powerful sprint. He's also strong, capable of knocking muscular center-backs flying and has a nice (yes, for a big man!).
His movement for the first goal at Anfield was spectacular as he pulled onto the last defender, drove in behind and cut the ball back for the waiting Salah to do what he does best. It was a move that showed exactly what fans hope Ekitike will bring: pace, power and precision. It was certainly a good first impression.
Florain Wirtz
Speaking of good first impressions...
Wirtz has always felt like more of a guarantee in terms of quality and being ready to immediately step up to the rigors of the Premier League, but again against Bilbao he showed why Liverpool were willing to make him the club's record signing. He just oozes class, as was shown repeatedly on Monday with his deft first touches and ability to glide forward effortlessly.
Wirtz drew several gasps from the crowd and linked well with Salah in the wide areas, while he displayed a habit of popping up in space as a Liverpool player looked to pass the ball. The German's first touch will be the topic of social media compilations this season - you heard it here first.
Ryan Gravenberch
Liverpool's breakthrough player last season, the Dutchman continued his excellent levels back at Anfield, with a impressive display at the base of midfield. Like last term, Gravenberch often didn't remain in his starting position, and was keen to drive forward on the ball.
In fact, his surges through the center twice resulted in Gakpo goals. Once, when the former Bayern Munich man dummied, bypassed an opposition player and fired at goal, with the shot saved and the rebound tapped in by Liverpool's no.18. Then, in the 71st minute, a shimmy and burst forward freed up space for Gravenberch to then slip the ball into Gakpo. Seconds later his shot squeezed beyond Unai Simon and into the back of the net.
In many ways it was a copy and paste from the early months of last season for Gravenberch - but Liverpool fans won't mind that.
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