Liverpool are in advanced negotiations with former Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola to become their new head coach, according to reports on Tuesday. The 43-year-old Spaniard has emerged as the club's primary candidate to replace Arne Slot, who was dismissed on Saturday following a turbulent second season at Anfield.
Deal in Principle Agreed
Liverpool have reportedly reached an agreement in principle to bring Iraola, who left Bournemouth at the end of this season, to Anfield. Sporting director Richard Hughes, who was instrumental in hiring Iraola during his tenure at Bournemouth, is again leading the recruitment process for the highly rated coach. The Reds are keen to finalize the deal before the start of the World Cup next week, allowing Iraola an extended acclimatization period ahead of pre-season training.
Slot's Dismissal
Slot was sacked after Liverpool finished fifth in the Premier League, 25 points behind champions Arsenal. Although he led Liverpool to the Premier League title in his debut season, his second campaign deteriorated rapidly. The death of forward Diogo Jota last year deeply affected the squad, while the club's £450 million ($606 million) spending spree on new signings failed to yield results. Slot's relationship with star forward Mohamed Salah soured, and fans turned against the former Feyenoord manager due to lifeless performances and poor results.
Iraola's Style and Success
Liverpool's pursuit of Iraola aligns with their desire to return to the aggressive, attacking style employed by Slot's predecessor, Jurgen Klopp. Iraola earned widespread praise for guiding Bournemouth to an impressive sixth-place finish this season, securing the club's first European qualification in the Europa League. He joined Bournemouth from Rayo Vallecano in 2023, having previously managed Mirandes and AEK Larnaca. Under Iraola, Bournemouth improved each year, finishing 12th, ninth, and sixth. He was commended for his astute tactics and development of young talents such as Eli Junior Kroupi and Alex Scott.
Potential Staff Additions
Iraola is reportedly keen to bring his Bournemouth assistant Tommy Elphick to Anfield. Elphick, a lifelong Liverpool fan, has turned down an offer to become manager of second-tier side Bristol City.
