Liverpool have appointed Andoni Iraola as their new head coach following the dismissal of Arne Slot.
The Reds confirmed Slot’s departure on Saturday, just one year after he guided the club to the Premier League title. However, a disappointing 2025-26 campaign ultimately led to the Dutchman’s exit.
Iraola arrives at Anfield after overseeing the most successful season in the history of AFC Bournemouth. The Cherries finished sixth in the Premier League, securing qualification for the Europa League and ending the season just one place and three points behind Liverpool.
The 43-year-old Spaniard had announced in April that he would leave Bournemouth at the end of the season, sparking interest from several major clubs, including Crystal Palace and AC Milan.
Liverpool have now won the race for one of Europe’s most highly-rated coaches as they seek to bounce back from a difficult campaign.
Despite qualifying for next season’s Champions League, Liverpool endured a disappointing league season by their standards, finishing with just 60 points ; their lowest Premier League total since the 2015-16 season. They ended the campaign a staggering 25 points behind champions Arsenal.
Iraola’s appointment signals a fresh direction for the club, with the former Bournemouth boss earning widespread praise for his aggressive pressing style, attacking football and ability to maximise resources.
Reports suggest Iraola is keen to bring trusted assistants Tommy Elphick and Shaun Cooper with him to Merseyside as part of his backroom staff.
