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Liverpool appoint Andoni Iraola as new head coach

June 05, 2026 / 9:12 AM
Liverpool appoint Andoni Iraola as new head coach
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Sharjah24: Liverpool FC have appointed Spanish coach Andoni Iraola as their new head coach, replacing Dutch manager Arne Slot, who was dismissed after a disappointing campaign.

The club did not disclose the length of Iraola’s contract, although British media reports indicated the agreement runs for two seasons.

Excited to join Liverpool

Speaking to Liverpool’s official website, Iraola expressed his enthusiasm for taking charge of one of the world’s most prestigious football clubs.

“I’m very excited because you naturally know Liverpool and understand it is a huge club, one of the biggest in the world,” he said.

The Spaniard added that his appreciation for the club grew even stronger after he gained a deeper understanding of its culture and traditions.

Impressive coaching journey

Iraola arrives at Anfield after a successful spell at AFC Bournemouth, where he guided the club to European qualification for the first time in its history.

The former right-back earned seven caps for the Spanish national football team and spent most of his playing career with Athletic Club, making more than 500 appearances before ending his playing career at New York City FC under coach Patrick Vieira.

Attacking philosophy

Iraola is widely recognised for his attacking style of play, a philosophy many Liverpool supporters associate with the club’s traditional identity.

His coaching career began at AEK Larnaca FC, followed by spells with CD Mirandes and Rayo Vallecano in Spain, then Bournemouth.

Slot departs after one season

Slot, who guided Liverpool to the Premier League title in his first season, paid the price for a disappointing follow-up campaign, despite significant investment in the squad.

High-profile signings, including Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz, struggled to make the expected impact because of fitness issues and adaptation challenges.

June 05, 2026 / 9:12 AM

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