Andoni Iraola is on the verge of becoming Liverpool's next head coach, with a verbal agreement reportedly reached. The 43-year-old Spaniard has emerged as the favourite to replace Arne Slot, who was sacked after Liverpool finished fifth in the Premier League. Formal talks began on Tuesday and negotiations are accelerating, with a two-year deal expected.
Iraola, who previously managed Bournemouth, is said to want to bring his Bournemouth coaching staff to Merseyside, including Pablo de la Torre, Tommy Elphick, Shaun Cooper and Tom Webber. Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes, who brought Iraola to Bournemouth, looks set to reunite with the tactician.
Bournemouth Echo's Alexander Smith praised Iraola's record at Bournemouth, where he improved the team from 12th to 9th to 6th, securing a first European qualification. Smith noted that Iraola's style is high-intensity, reminiscent of Jurgen Klopp's 'heavy metal football', and that his ability to adapt and get results against top teams, such as a win at Arsenal, shows his quality.
Smith believes Iraola will succeed at Liverpool, stating: 'With a squad with more quality on paper, I think he'll be able to do his work well and make an impact.' He added that Iraola's system is well-drilled and that the manager has made tactical tweaks while maintaining the same identity.
