Liverpool have confirmed the appointment of Andoni Iraola as their new head coach on a two-year contract, just six days after the dismissal of Arne Slot. The 43-year-old former Bournemouth boss was identified as the ideal candidate to implement a more aggressive, attacking style at Anfield.
Iraola, who was also courted by Milan, Bayer Leverkusen and Crystal Palace, was Liverpool's favoured option from the outset. Sporting director Richard Hughes, who previously appointed Iraola at Bournemouth, led the approach alongside chief executive Michael Edwards.
Speaking to the club's media channel, Iraola said: 'For me, football is about emotions. About passion. I'm quite cool-headed probably, during my life quite rational, I would say. But it's true that when the game starts, when you have to celebrate a goal, something is inside, no? I think this inner energy, you need it as a player, you need it as a supporter, you need it as a coach. No better place than Anfield.'
On his ambitions, he added: '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.'
Iraola has signed a contract until the end of the 2027/28 season and intends to bring his former Bournemouth assistants Tommy Elphick and Shaun Cooper, analyst Tom Webber and fitness coach Pablo de la Torre to Anfield. Liverpool consider Iraola one of the best coaches available, impressed by his high-pressing style and track record of improving players at Bournemouth despite limited resources.
