Liverpool officially appoint Andoni Iraola

Liverpool have officially confirmed the appointment of a new head coach following a major managerial change at Anfield.

The announcement comes just days after the club parted ways with Arne Slot following a disappointing fifth-place Premier League finish.

That outcome came only a year after Liverpool had lifted the league title, making the decision one of the biggest managerial stories of the summer.

The man chosen to succeed Slot is Andoni Iraola.

Manchester United supporters may recognise the Spaniard’s name, with Iraola having been loosely linked with the Old Trafford job during Ruben Amorim’s difficult spell in charge.

However, Amorim was ultimately dismissed in January.

Michael Carrick then guided United back into the Champions League.

Liverpool confirmed the appointment on their official website, revealing that Iraola has agreed a deal to become the club’s new head coach ahead of the 2026/27 season.

The 43-year-old arrives after an impressive spell with Bournemouth.

He spent three seasons on the south coast and guided the club into European competition for the first time in their history.

Speaking to Liverpool’s official media channels, Iraola expressed his excitement about taking charge at Anfield and described Liverpool as one of the biggest clubs in world football.

Before moving into management, Iraola enjoyed a distinguished playing career with Athletic Club.

He made more than 500 appearances and earned seven senior caps for Spain.

His coaching journey began with AEK Larnaca before successful spells at Mirandes and Rayo Vallecano.

He then moved to Bournemouth in 2023 and quickly established himself as one of the Premier League’s most highly regarded managers.

Liverpool’s hierarchy have now entrusted him with leading the club into a new era following Slot’s departure.

The appointment is one of the biggest managerial moves of the summer and will inevitably attract attention from Manchester United supporters given Iraola’s previous links with Old Trafford and the rivalry between the two clubs.

Liverpool will now hope their new head coach can build on his success at Bournemouth and return the club to competing for major honours next season.