Liverpool are set to begin formal talks with Andoni Iraola this week as the Bournemouth boss emerges as the leading candidate to replace Arne Slot.
Liverpool are set to begin formal talks with Andoni Iraola this week as they step up their search for a new head coach. The Spaniard has emerged as the clear frontrunner following Arne Slot's dismissal after a disappointing title defence.
The Reds are hoping to move quickly and have a replacement in place before the FIFA World Cup begins on June 11. Club officials believe an early appointment will give the new manager valuable time to prepare for the 2026-27 campaign.
Liverpool confirmed Slot's departure on Saturday after a turbulent second season at Anfield. Despite qualifying for the Champions League, the club finished fifth in the Premier League with just 60 points. That tally was Liverpool's lowest since the 2015-16 season and left them 25 points behind champions Arsenal. The club's hierarchy, led by chief executive Michael Edwards and sporting director Richard Hughes, decided a change in direction was needed.
Attention quickly shifted to Iraola, who recently left Bournemouth after guiding the Cherries to their most successful campaign. The 43-year-old led the south coast club to a sixth-place finish and secured European qualification for the first time in their history.
Liverpool's decision is believed to be heavily influenced by style of play. The club reportedly wants a more aggressive and front-foot approach after criticism of Slot's slower tactical system. Iraola's Bournemouth side earned widespread praise for their intensity and attacking football. Their energetic pressing game drew comparisons with the style Liverpool supporters enjoyed under Jurgen Klopp.
The Spaniard also has a strong relationship with Hughes. The current Liverpool sporting director appointed Iraola during his time at Bournemouth after being impressed by his work at Rayo Vallecano. That existing connection could prove crucial as Liverpool look to accelerate negotiations. Reports suggest Iraola's salary expectations, believed to be around £10 million per year, will not be a stumbling block.
Iraola's stock has risen considerably over the past three years. After establishing himself as one of Spain's most promising coaches, he successfully translated that reputation to the Premier League. His Bournemouth team finished only one place and three points behind Liverpool this season. They secured a Europa League berth while consistently outperforming clubs with larger budgets.
Former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard believes Iraola would be an excellent fit. Gerrard praised the Spaniard's style and suggested it aligns closely with Liverpool's traditional football identity. While other names remain under consideration, including Sebastian Hoeness and Pierre Sage, Iraola is widely viewed as the leading candidate.
Liverpool's disappointing campaign ultimately cost Slot his job. The Reds suffered 12 league defeats and 19 losses across all competitions despite spending more than £415 million on new signings last summer. High-profile arrivals such as Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz failed to inspire a successful title defence. The team also struggled for consistency and intensity throughout the season.
Club officials remain appreciative of Slot's achievements, particularly delivering Liverpool's 20th league title in his first campaign. However, they believe a managerial change offers the best route back to domestic and European contention.
Formal discussions between Liverpool and Iraola are expected to begin this week. If negotiations progress smoothly, the Spaniard could be unveiled as the club's new head coach before the World Cup starts on June 11. Liverpool hope a swift appointment will provide clarity ahead of a crucial summer. The club faces important decisions in the transfer market and wants its next manager heavily involved in shaping the squad.
