Liverpool have confirmed the appointment of Andoni Iraola as their new head coach ahead of the 2026/27 season.
The Spaniard has signed a two-year contract at Anfield and becomes the club’s latest managerial appointment after Liverpool decided to part ways with Arne Slot at the end of the 2025/26 season.
The club announced the move on Thursday, June 4, ending speculation over who would take charge ahead of the new campaign.
Iraola arrives at Liverpool after an impressive spell with Bournemouth, where he earned widespread praise for his attacking style of football and his ability to improve players.
The 43-year-old guided Bournemouth to their highest-ever Premier League finish (sixth) and secured qualification for European football for the first time in the club’s history, attracting interest from several top clubs across Europe.
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Liverpool move quickly to appoint Slot successor
Liverpool’s search for a new manager moved rapidly after Slot’s departure was confirmed on Saturday, May 30.
Reports suggested that sporting director Richard Hughes played a key role in the process, having previously worked with Iraola during their time together at Bournemouth.
According to Sky Sports, Liverpool identified Iraola as their preferred candidate early in the process and quickly reached an agreement with the former Bournemouth boss.
Formal negotiations progressed smoothly, with the Spaniard keen on the opportunity to manage one of the biggest clubs in world football.
Speaking after his appointment, Iraola expressed his excitement around the role.
“Really excited, really excited,” he told Liverpoolfc.com. “Because obviously you know about Liverpool, you know that it’s a big club, a massive club, one of the biggest in the world.
“But feeling inside and understanding a little bit more of this club, I always thought it’s a special club.
“You don’t need a lot of things to get attracted by Liverpool. Liverpool is Liverpool.
“But obviously the atmosphere, the supporters, the club, the players, the chance for me to coach top-level players, the chance to fight for titles. I think it cannot be more attractive than this. It’s difficult to find it. So, really excited to start.
“I think Liverpool gives me the chance to coach top players, and top players give you the chance to fight for titles. To win titles.
“Obviously when you arrive at a place, you cannot promise everything. You cannot promise. But it’s true that I understand where I’m coming and what is expected.
“I’m ready for the challenge.”
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What Liverpool can expect from Iraola
Iraola has built a reputation as one of the most promising coaches in Europe.
Before moving to England, he impressed at Spanish side Rayo Vallecano, where he promoted the club to La Liga in his first season.
There, he also earned praise for producing competitive teams despite limited resources, and earning victories against Barcelona and Real Madrid.
His football philosophy is based on aggressive pressing, quick transitions and attacking intent.
Those qualities have led many observers to compare aspects of his approach to the style that brought Liverpool significant success under former manager Jurgen Klopp.
Liverpool will hope that approach can help the club bounce back after a disappointing campaign that ultimately led to Slot’s departure.
Iraola now faces the challenge of rebuilding confidence within the squad and returning the Reds to the fight for major honours both domestically and in Europe.
The appointment marks the biggest challenge of Iraola’s coaching career so far, but Liverpool’s hierarchy believe they have found the right man to lead the club into a new era at Anfield.
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