Liverpool Opens Formal Talks with Andoni Iraola for Head Coach Role

Liverpool Football Club has entered formal negotiations with Spanish manager Andoni Iraola to replace Arne Slot, who was dismissed on Saturday. Sporting director Richard Hughes is leading the process, and the club hopes to confirm a new head coach before the 2026 World Cup starts on 11 June. Iraola, 43, currently guides Bournemouth, where he delivered a sixth-place Premier League finish and an 18-match unbeaten run that secured the club’s first European qualification.

ESPN

Slot’s exit follows a season in which Liverpool recorded 20 defeats across all competitions after winning the league in 2024-25, prompting a shift toward a more aggressive, front-footed identity. Iraola’s record at Bournemouth – sixth place in 2024-25 and an unbeaten streak in 2025-26 – is cited as evidence of his ability to extract maximum performance from limited resources. Richard Hughes, who recruited Iraola to Bournemouth in 2023, remains the chief negotiator. Former captain Steven Gerrard publicly backs the candidate, while Iraola’s agent Iñaki Ibáñez and his trusted assistant Tommy Elphick are expected to feature in any eventual backroom team.

The Guardian

Gerrard praised Iraola’s work at Bournemouth and said his style fits Liverpool’s ambitions. In an open letter, Slot expressed confidence in the club’s future and highlighted its capacity for change. Liverpool confirmed that no external coaching staff have been approached and that any backroom appointments will be finalised after Iraola’s contract is secured.

The Guardian

Pundits note Iraola’s lack of major trophies, observing he “has never won anything significant.” Analysts also warn that his high-pressing, front-footed system may be “too demanding” for a squad perceived as not built for such intensity.

BBC News

While most outlets name Iraola as the frontrunner, other names – Sebastian Hoeness (Stuttgart), Pierre Sage (Lens), AC Milan, Crystal Palace and Bayer Leverkusen – have been mentioned as possible alternatives. No official confirmation of Iraola’s acceptance or of any backroom hires has been released.

Mirror - UK

• “I think he's done a fabulous job at Bournemouth. I think his style would suit Liverpool.” — Steven Gerrard, former Liverpool captain, TNT Sports

ESPN

• “But potentially to answer your question, I think he should be in the conversation, yes.” — Steven Gerrard, TNT Sports

ESPN

• “Meanwhile, departing boss Arne Slot wrote an open letter in the Liverpool Echo to the club's fans, saying: "I leave with complete confidence in what lies ahead.” — Arne Slot, outgoing Liverpool manager

ESPN

Liverpool aims to finalise the appointment before 11 June 2026. Once confirmed, Iraola will design pre-season training, assess the squad and likely pursue a defensive signing to replace Ibrahima Konaté, setting the stage for the 2026-27 campaign.

Mirror - UK