Liverpool have confirmed the appointment of Andoni Iraola as their new head coach.
The former Bournemouth boss has signed a two-year deal at Anfield, replacing Arne Slot who was relieved of his duties last week.
After a thoroughly underwhelming 2025-26 season, Liverpool moved quickly to bring in the man who established himself as one of the best coaches in the Premier League last season, guiding the Cherries to European football with an attractive style and established football philosophy.
‘I think Liverpool gives me the chance to coach top players, and top players give you the chance to fight for titles. To win titles,’ Iraola told the club’s website. “It cannot be more attractive than this.
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‘Obviously when you arrive at a place, you cannot promise everything. You cannot promise. But it’s true that I understand where I’m coming and what is expected. I’m ready for the challenge,’ Iraola said.
‘At the beginning when you arrive at any club, I think you need to kind of prove a little bit yourself. You need to earn the right also to belong.
‘I want to do this as quickly as possible so I can also celebrate with them (fans) and I can be part properly of those celebrations.
‘It matters a lot to everyone. Football is about emotion and I understand it’s a privilege and a big responsibility as those people want to be represented properly.
‘I would love from my side and the players’ side (that) those people identify with the football, the values of the squad.
‘I can only say I want to earn the right to be one of you so we can enjoy it all together.’
Liverpool spent an unprecedented £450million in the transfer market last summer but the squad is in need of some repair if they are to challenge for the title again.
Iraola comes in with some big decisions to be made alongside Richard Hughes and Michael Edwards, sporting director and CEO of football at the club.
Liverpool have said goodbye to Mohamed Salah with Ibrahima Konate expected to join Real Madrid with his contract on Merseyside set to expire.
Hugo Ekitike is not expected to return to action until late in the year at the very earliest with Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz enduring difficult first seasons at the club.
The Times report strengthening in wide areas is a priority. Liverpool have already opened talks with RB Leipzig over a deal to sign Yan Diomande. The 19-year-old was one of the standout performers in the Bundesliga last season with 12 goals and eight assists with RB Leipzig demanding at least €130 million (£112.4m).
The report also names Bradley Barcola as another name on Liverpool’s list.
The France international is coming off another trophy-laden season with Paris Saint-Germain but sits behind Ousmane Dembélé, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, and Désiré Doué in their fearsome attacking pecking order.
Fabrizio Romano reported this week Arsenal are also keen on Barcola as they seek to strengthen the left side of their attack, leaving the Premier League giants head-to-head in the race to sign him.