Liverpool have appointed Andoni Iraola as their new head coach, confirming the arrival of the Spaniard on a two-year contract just six days after the dismissal of Arne Slot.
The 43-year-old takes charge following Liverpool’s disappointing Premier League title defence and becomes the club’s preferred choice after an extensive review of the team’s direction.
Iraola, who recently left Bournemouth at the end of his contract, was identified as the ideal candidate to implement a more aggressive and attacking style of football at Anfield.
Liverpool moved swiftly to secure his services amid reported interest from Milan, Bayer Leverkusen and Crystal Palace.
The club said formal discussions progressed smoothly, with Iraola making it clear Liverpool was the only destination he wished to pursue.
Speaking after his appointment, Iraola expressed enthusiasm about joining one of football’s most prominent clubs and acknowledged the expectations that come with the role.
The former Bournemouth manager said he intends to earn his place at the club and embrace the atmosphere at Anfield as quickly as possible.
He also stressed his desire to compete for major honours, while noting that success cannot be guaranteed.
Liverpool’s hierarchy believe Iraola is ideally suited to evolve the team’s playing style after a difficult campaign under Slot.
His reputation for developing players, implementing high-intensity tactics and improving teams with limited resources played a significant role in the decision.
Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes led the pursuit of Iraola, having previously appointed him at Bournemouth in 2023.
Hughes and Michael Edwards, chief executive of football for Fenway Sports Group, concluded that a managerial change was necessary following Liverpool’s fifth-place finish and trophyless season.
Iraola arrives after a successful spell at Bournemouth, where the club improved its Premier League position in each of his three seasons and secured qualification for European competition.
Liverpool have confirmed that Iraola has signed a deal running until the end of the 2027-28 season.
He is expected to bring several trusted members of his coaching staff from Bournemouth, although no appointments to his backroom team have yet been finalised.
The appointment marks the beginning of a new chapter for Liverpool as the club seeks to return to contention for major trophies.