Iraola is currently in the United States preparing for his first season in charge of Liverpool after replacing the sacked Arne Slot in June. The 44-year-old arrives at Anfield having transformed Bournemouth into one of the Premier League's most exciting sides.
From Bournemouth to Anfield
During the second half of last season, Bournemouth went on an 18-game unbeaten run under Iraola, finishing sixth in the Premier League and qualifying for the Europa League. He also fashioned the Cherries into the most exciting team in the Premier League.
Fletcher's prediction
Former Bournemouth forward Steve Fletcher, a lifelong Liverpool supporter, believes the manager will not change his approach. "He likes to play aggressive football and press from the front and I can’t see him changing much of his philosophy," Fletcher said.
Fletcher also spoke of his personal connection to the new setup. "I hope so because he’s a good person as well and he’s gone there with two of my good friends and ex-team-mates in Tommy Elphick and Shaun Cooper," he said. "I wish the three of them a massive success and I don’t think Andoni will change the way he plays because he likes to play attacking football."
A boyhood Reds fan
Fletcher grew up supporting Liverpool and named Kenny Dalglish and Ian Rush as his childhood heroes. "Liverpool were my team as a kid, Kenny Dalglish was my hero, and I loved Ian Rush, and I always looked out for them. He’s gone to my boyhood team and I wish him all the success in the world. I think he will be a hit," he added.
"I hope he’s a hit and I think the fans will enjoy the way he plays, but as we know it is all about results for any club in the Premier League but finger crossed he is a massive success at Anfield."
Fletcher believes the players will also relish playing under Iraola. "I think the fans will enjoy the way he plays. You saw that with AFC Bournemouth, he doesn't sit back whether you are winning or losing. He goes for it and I think the fans will enjoy that and I think players will enjoy playing that way as well."
