Liverpool are closing in on the appointment of Andoni Iraola as their next head coach after reaching a verbal agreement with the Spaniard to take charge at Anfield.
The 43-year-old is expected to sign a two-year contract and succeed Arne Slot, who recently departed the club following a disappointing campaign. Liverpool’s sporting director, Richard Hughes, has played a key role in negotiations, having previously brought Iraola to Bournemouth in 2023.
Iraola leaves Bournemouth after overseeing the most successful period in the club’s Premier League history. Under his leadership, the Cherries secured a sixth-place finish and qualified for European competition for the first time, despite losing influential players during the season.
Liverpool viewed Iraola as the standout candidate due to his high-intensity style, aggressive pressing and attacking philosophy. Club officials believe his approach is a strong fit for the direction they want the team to take moving forward.
The Spaniard is also expected to bring several trusted members of his coaching staff with him to Merseyside. Among those likely to join are assistants Tommy Elphick and Shaun Cooper, analyst Tom Webber and fitness coach Pablo de la Torre.
The Reds are keen to complete the appointment quickly, with plans to have the new manager in place before the start of the upcoming World Cup. The club faces a significant summer of change and wants Iraola involved in preparations as soon as possible.
Iraola has built a growing reputation across Europe after successful spells with Mirandés, Rayo Vallecano and Bournemouth. His teams are known for their relentless energy, vertical attacking football and willingness to press opponents high up the pitch.
An official announcement is expected in the coming days as Liverpool finalize the remaining details of the deal.