European business, markets and politics
Alexander Isak’s double caps Liverpool’s first triumph under Javier Iraola, ending a shaky start to the campaign.

Alexander Isak found the net twice as Liverpool eased to a 2-0 win at Ipswich Town’s Portman Road, handing new boss Iraola his inaugural victory.
The Swedish striker arrived from Newcastle for a reported £125 million, a fee matched only this week by Manchester City for Enzo Fernandez. After a season‑long injury spell, Isak’s goals not only justify the price tag but also revive a forward line that struggled to deliver last term.
Bradley Barcola, Liverpool’s latest £100 million signing, made his Premier League debut as a second‑half substitute, adding depth to an attack that also features Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike. The win lifts the Reds to fifth place and maintains an unbeaten start under the Basque coach.
"We needed it. Definitely needed this one. Also the way it has been, I think, with a clean sheet," said Iraola.
With the three points, Liverpool stay within striking distance of the league leaders and can build momentum ahead of upcoming fixtures against higher‑placed opponents. The next test will be whether the defensive improvements praised by Iraola hold up against stronger attacks.
For Ipswich, the loss follows a mixed start to their return to the top flight, including a win over Sunderland and heavy defeats to Manchester United and others. Their focus now shifts to tightening up at the back to avoid further setbacks.