Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola says his priority is to build a team that supporters can connect with and feel proud of as he prepares for his first season in charge at Liverpool FC.
The Spaniard, who was appointed Liverpool manager after a successful three-year spell at AFC Bournemouth, says football at Anfield is about more than results —it is about creating a strong bond between the players and the supporters.
Speaking ahead of the new season on August 22, Iraola outlined his vision for the club.
“I would like to give them a team they can feel proud of. Football, especially in Liverpool, is about connecting with the people,” Iraola said.
“I have been on the other side at Anfield, you can feel the stadium. I would love to have this every game we play. It has to come from us on the pitch.”
“We have to be a team that works hard, intense and aggressive. So everyone can be identified and feel comfortable supporting this team.”
Iraola arrives at Liverpool after transforming Bournemouth’s fortunes during his time on the south coast. He guided the club to Premier League finishes of 12th in the 2023–24 season, ninth in 2024–25 and sixth in 2025–26, securing European football before departing for Anfield.
The former Athletic Bilbao player also revealed that he has already started building relationships with Liverpool’s squad, including players who featured at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
“I have spoken with the players who have been in the World Cup, especially the ones who have been eliminated and are enjoying holidays,” he said.
“I didn’t want to disturb them, but it has been very good conversations.”
Iraola added that he has also held discussions with members of staff at the club as he looks to create the right environment ahead of the new campaign.
“I have spoken to a lot of people that work every day around here. They are the ones helping me to create a good environment so we can maximise their abilities.”
The Liverpool boss now faces the challenge of maintaining the club’s high standards while implementing his own style, built around intensity, aggression and collective effort.
