Liverpool have reached a verbal agreement with Andoni Iraola to become their new head coach, succeeding Arne Slot, Sky Sports reported on Saturday.T2 - Sky Sports
Iraola, 43, left Bournemouth in May after guiding the club to a ninth-place Premier League finish in 2024/25, their highest top-flight position in the club’s history. The Spaniard is understood to have agreed a three-year contract with Liverpool, with the deal expected to be formalised once Slot’s departure is confirmed. Personal terms are said to be in place, with a compensation package between Liverpool and Iraola’s representatives still to be settled.
Sky Sports broke the news on their digital platform, reporting that Liverpool’s recruitment team had identified Iraola as their leading candidate several weeks ago. David Ornstein of The Athletic has since corroborated the agreement, citing his own sourcing at the club, while Fabrizio Romano posted on his X feed that talks are at an advanced stage, though he stopped short of his customary “Here we go!” until the contract is signed.T1 - Romano
Slot’s future at Anfield has been the subject of mounting speculation since Liverpool’s Champions League round-of-16 exit in March and a run of four league defeats in six matches. The Dutchman, who won the Premier League title in his debut season in 2024/25, has two years remaining on his contract. Liverpool are understood to be working through the terms of his departure, with an announcement expected no earlier than Monday.
Iraola’s coaching career includes spells at Mirandés, Rayo Vallecano, and Villarreal before his four-year tenure at Bournemouth. He is known for his structured 4-4-2 and high-pressing system, which is seen as broadly compatible with Liverpool’s existing squad profile.
Liverpool are not expected to make a formal announcement until Slot’s exit is resolved. Iraola’s backroom staff arrangements remain under discussion, with no confirmation yet on whether any of his Bournemouth coaching team will make the move to Merseyside.
