Updated: 2 Jun 2026 10:25 BST |
4 min read
Liverpool have reportedly reached an agreement to appoint Andoni Iraola as their new manager following the sacking of Arne Slot on Saturday.
The Spaniard has left Bournemouth after guiding them to the Europa League for the first time in their history, and he is now on the verge of being hired as Slot’s permanent replacement at Anfield.
Iraola, who was heavily linked with the Chelsea job before Xabi Alonso’s move to Stamford Bridge was confirmed, has been the clear favourite to become the next Liverpool boss ever since Slot’s departure was announced and an official statement confirming his appointment is expected shortly.
Widespread rumours have revealed that Iraola is close to joining Liverpool and transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has now reported that a deal has been agreed.
He posted on his X account: “BREAKING: Liverpool reach agreement in principle to appoint Andoni Iraola as new manager, here we go!
“Exclusive story from Saturday, 100% confirmed: Arne Slot left and Iraola will lead LFC project, as expected. Talks advanced over last 48h and deal in place.”
Iraola is expected to sign a three-year contract as Liverpool boss, and he will begin his duties at Anfield on 1 July.
Andoni Iraola joins Liverpool
Iraola arrived at Bournemouth as a highly-rated head coach following an impressive stint at Rayo Vallecano, and he established the Cherries as one of the biggest overachievers in the Premier League across a hugely successful three-year spell.
They finished 12th in his first season, ninth in his second and they secured Europa League football via a sixth-place finish in 2025-26, without losing any of their last 18 Premier League matches.
It was the longest unbeaten run of any club in the English top flight last season and the best such run in Bournemouth’s entire history.
Iraola’s fast-paced style bares some similarities to the system that Jurgen Klopp deployed to such great success at Liverpool, but he will be faced with a huge task at Anfield following confirmation that Mohamed Salah, Andrew Robertson and Ibrahima Konate will all leave on Bosman deals this summer.
Alisson is also keen to leave, amid interest from Juventus, and Liverpool are therefore set for a sizable squad overhaul just one year after spending close to €500 million on new signings.
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