The France international arrived at Anfield from Paris Saint-Germain in a £123 million deal during the summer, becoming one of Liverpool’s most significant attacking additions following Mohamed Salah’s departure.
Barcola has shown flashes of his quality since moving to England, but has acknowledged that he is still adapting to his new surroundings and expects more from himself.
“I don't think I'm at my best yet. You still haven't seen the best version of me.
“On top of that, we're working with my team-mates so that they can make the most of my strengths.
“So yes, I think once we really develop that understanding, things will get much better. And I think things are improving all the time.”
The winger has already demonstrated his ability to make an impact, particularly in Europe, where he scored a hat-trick against LASK in the Champions League. He has also provided two assists in the Premier League, although he is still waiting for his first league goal.
Barcola believes the relationship he develops with the players around him will be central to taking his performances to another level. Understanding his movement and recognising the situations in which he can be most dangerous should allow Liverpool to get more from his attacking qualities.
His arrival also followed an important summer for the club, with Salah leaving after establishing himself as one of Liverpool’s greatest modern players. Barcola is conscious of the expectations that come with replacing such an influential figure, but insists he is not allowing the comparison to affect him.
“First of all, I wasn't the one who decided the transfer fee. So that's not been my problem.
“And regarding Mo Salah, he's a legend here. A huge one. He's done big things here and for that I have an enormous respect for him. But it's not pressure for me at all.
“I'm not Mohamed Salah, so I'm going to try to contribute whatever I can to the club and make my own mark on its history. I don't feel any pressure about that.”
Barcola also explained why he decided to leave Paris after winning the Champions League in successive seasons. Despite enjoying considerable success with the French club, he felt the time was right to seek a new challenge.
“For me, it was the right time to leave PSG. I spent so many great years there and I won an enormous amount of trophies. But it was time.
“It was quite difficult because, over there, it was a real family. We'd built something very special together. On top of that, it was very difficult to leave and say goodbye to my team-mates. But ultimately, that's just how football is.
“When a club like Liverpool comes calling, it's a great thing. I didn't have any doubts and I just knew I had to come here. I'm happy to be here, and I hope things go well for PSG.”
Barcola’s message is that his adaptation is progressing, but he knows there is more to come. With his individual quality already evident, developing the understanding with his Liverpool team-mates could prove decisive in turning promising performances into consistent production.
