By Francis Onyach - Reporter
Kenya, 2 June 2026 - Liverpool are closing in on the appointment of Andoni Iraola as their new head coach following the departure of Arne Slot, with reports indicating that an agreement in principle has now been reached between the club and the highly-rated Spanish manager.
The Reds moved quickly after parting ways with Slot, identifying Iraola as their preferred candidate to lead the next chapter of the club's project. Talks intensified over the past few days, and multiple reports now suggest that Liverpool and Iraola have reached a broad agreement on the key terms of his appointment.
The decision comes after a dramatic period at Anfield. Slot leaves Liverpool after a turbulent second season in charge. Although he guided the club to Premier League glory during his first campaign and secured Champions League qualification, Liverpool's hierarchy ultimately decided a change was necessary as they looked toward the future.
Iraola's rise has been one of the most impressive managerial stories in European football. The former Athletic Club defender earned widespread praise during his time at Bournemouth, transforming the Cherries into one of the Premier League's most exciting and aggressive teams. Under his leadership, Bournemouth achieved a historic sixth-place finish and qualified for European competition for the first time in the club's history.
Liverpool's sporting director Richard Hughes has played a key role in the negotiations. Hughes was instrumental in bringing Iraola to Bournemouth in 2023 and is believed to have maintained a strong working relationship with the coach and his representatives. That connection appears to have helped accelerate discussions.
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One of the main reasons Liverpool have targeted Iraola is his footballing philosophy. His teams are known for intense pressing, quick transitions, attacking football, and relentless energy, traits that closely align with the identity Liverpool built under Jürgen Klopp. Club executives reportedly believe Iraola's style is a natural fit for both the current squad and the expectations of Anfield supporters.
Attention will now turn to Iraola's plans for the squad. Several major decisions await the incoming coach, including discussions over key players' futures and potential summer transfer targets. Reports also suggest that members of his Bournemouth coaching staff could follow him to Merseyside, while former Liverpool midfielder Thiago Alcântara has been linked with a potential role within the new backroom team.
While Liverpool have yet to make an official announcement, the expectation across English football is that the deal will be finalized soon. The club is reportedly keen to complete the appointment before the upcoming international tournament period, allowing Iraola maximum time to prepare for the 2026/27 season.
For Liverpool supporters, the appointment signals the beginning of another new era. Replacing a title-winning manager is never straightforward, but Iraola arrives with a growing reputation as one of Europe's brightest coaching minds. If he can successfully translate his Bournemouth success onto a bigger stage, Liverpool may believe they have found the ideal leader to guide the club into its next chapter.