During the IFA 2026 event in Berlin, McManaman gave an exclusive interview to Sport. In the first part of the interview, he shared his thoughts on the evolution of football, Ancelotti, and Ronal Araújo. Related link: [McManaman: I don't think Arnold has adaptation issues; Yamal is already a world-class superstar]

You are an ambassador for both UEFA and FIFA, and there's much discussion about the direction sports should take. What do you think football needs most in the future?

I don't think there were major problems in the past. What really needs to happen is communication with everyone, listening to general opinions, and most importantly, being beneficial to the fans—because fans matter most. There shouldn't be too many changes. Right now I feel there are new rules, different new rules every year.

We're making changes for the sake of change. Frankly, I don't like what we're doing now. I don't like the water break in the World Cup, and I don't like the halftime break in the final being extended to 30 minutes. We're changing many things every year.

This year we changed the corner kick rule, and next year we might change the throw-in rule. I think we're making football increasingly complicated. Football was excellent 40, 50, or even just 20 years ago. We're making changes for the sake of change. I don't think we're making it better.

Are you talking about VAR?

For example, VAR disrupts the most exciting moments of celebration and changes the meaning of the game. It also creates more controversy. I think it has strayed too far from its original purpose. You seem to agree with this, don't you? I'd like to hear your thoughts too. After all, you watch a lot of games.

Why do you think football is such an important platform for brands?

Frankly, there's no need to even explain it. Billions of people around the world follow and love football, so I think it makes perfect sense that businesses and brands want to connect with football, especially with top teams.

It's very natural. Football speaks for itself. It's the most popular sport in the world and has the largest viewership globally. So if you want to reach a large audience, football is a great way to do it.

You're also an ambassador for Liverpool FC. What are your thoughts on the team's chances this season under Ancelotti's management?

I think it will be difficult. I like Ancelotti. I hope they sign a few more players. We've lost several important, experienced players like Salah, Konaté, Curtis Jones, and Andy Robertson.

We've also signed some very good young players, but they're all young and don't have much Premier League experience. So I hope the team will continue to add more experienced players. Several English teams are in similar situations. I think Arsenal FC are favorites, and other teams may have tougher seasons.

Manchester City FC have brought in many players and changed managers. Chelsea FC have also brought in many players and changed managers. Liverpool FC have had significant ins and outs and changed managers as well. So this could be a season of transition. In contrast, Arsenal FC seem to be a relatively stable team.

Interestingly, one of Liverpool FC's new signings is Ronal Araújo. Do you think he can make a difference in the Premier League?

I really like him. I watch La Liga a lot, and he's an excellent defender. I know he's had injuries before and took time away from football due to some personal issues, but in terms of defensive ability, he's very strong.

Many Liverpool FC fans are concerned about right-back issues, but you know, Ronal Araújo has played right-back many times before. I saw him play that position when Koundé moved to center-back and Ronal Araújo was tasked with marking Vinícius, and he did very well.

I really like this transfer. It's an important reinforcement for Liverpool FC, even though it's just a loan for now. An experienced player who has played at the highest level is coming in. He can play center-back and right-back, is very fast, and needs to play regularly. He's a great fighter, and I really like him.

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