Liverpool have reached a verbal agreement to appoint Andoni Iraola as head coach, replacing the sacked Arne Slot. Sporting director Richard Hughes—who hired Iraola at Bournemouth in 2023—led the talks. Iraola wants Pablo de la Torre, Tommy Elphick, Shaun Cooper and Tom Webber on his Anfield staff. The club hopes the move steadies a turbulent preseason and aligns with European ambitions.

Iraola arrived at Bournemouth after Hughes recruited him, guiding the Cherries to an 18‑game unbeaten run and a sixth‑place finish that secured Europa League qualification, just three points shy of Liverpool. His pressing style mirrors the brand of football Jurgen Klopp installed, a factor that many pundits, including Jamie Carragher, say Liverpool must regain. Challenging Manchester City for title, a narrative missing since Klopp's exit.

Critics question whether Iraola can sustain that intensity with Liverpool’s three‑day match rhythm, a concern voiced by Carragher and Jamie Redknapp, who praised his Bournemouth achievements but warned about player communication. If he replicates the press‑forward approach and secures the right signings, Liverpool could restore off‑the‑ball solidity and compete for honours this season. The upcoming Champions League tie will be first test of his tactics.