Liverpool have confirmed Andoni Iraola as their new head coach on a two-year deal. The 43-year-old Spaniard takes charge days after Arne Slot's departure, with the club moving fast to secure their top target.
From the Cherries to Anfield
Iraola arrives with a reputation built over three remarkable seasons at Bournemouth, where he transformed a mid-table side into a European force. His final campaign ended with a sixth-place finish and a first-ever UEFA Europa League qualification. An 18-match unbeaten run in the second half of last season made him one of the most coveted managers in Europe.
Liverpool moved quickly after Slot's sacking on May 30. Iraola's high-tempo, vertically aggressive football long drew comparisons to Klopp's methods at Anfield. The Basque manager spent 12 seasons as a player at Athletic Bilbao under Marcelo Bielsa, an experience that shaped everything about how he manages.
What Iraola Brings
His Bournemouth teams pressed relentlessly, allowed opponents the ball in dangerous positions, and relied on fast transitions. It was risky and chaotic and somehow it worked. Pep Guardiola praised Iraola after Bournemouth knocked Manchester City off a 32-game unbeaten run in November 2024. At Liverpool, with deeper resources, the same system should have considerably more destructive effect.
The Slot Chapter Closes Quickly
Slot's exit came just 12 months after he led Liverpool to a record-equalling 20th English championship. Liverpool acted decisively: within six days of Slot leaving, Iraola's appointment was confirmed. Liverpool's new era starts now.
Transfer context: Andoni Iraola, 43, signed a two-year contract at Liverpool FC on June 4, 2026. Left Bournemouth after guiding them to Europe for first time in their history. Transfer window opens June 15.
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