Liverpool Football Club has officially confirmed the appointment of Andoni Iraola as the club's new head coach ahead of the 2026/27 season. The 43-year-old Spaniard arrives at Anfield to succeed Arne Slot, whose tenure at the club concluded last Saturday. Iraola joins the Reds following three highly successful campaigns at AFC Bournemouth, where he most recently guided the Cherries to a historic sixth-place finish in the Premier League, securing European qualification for the first time in the club's history.
In his first official interview with the club, Iraola expressed his immense excitement at taking charge of such a prestigious institution. He acknowledged the stature of Liverpool FC, noting that the combination of the club's iconic atmosphere, its passionate supporters, and the opportunity to manage a world-class squad made the decision to move to Merseyside an easy one. The new head coach emphasized his eagerness to begin work, stating that he is fully focused on the challenge of fighting for major titles and building upon the club's rich history.
Iraola’s managerial journey has been defined by a progressive, high-energy tactical approach that earned him widespread acclaim during his time on the South Coast. Before his Premier League breakthrough in 2023, he managed Rayo Vallecano in Spain, where he secured promotion to La Liga, as well as spells with AEK Larnaca in Cyprus and CD Mirandés. His tactical philosophy characterized by intensive pressing and attacking fluidity is expected to be a key element of his tenure as he looks to revitalize the squad for the upcoming season.
Watch Iraola's first interview as head coach
Born in the Basque region of Spain, Iraola also brings a wealth of top-level experience from his playing career, during which he made over 500 appearances for Athletic Club and represented the Spanish national team. As he prepares to lead the Reds into the new campaign, the club has signaled a period of strategic transition aimed at restoring Liverpool's competitive standing at the pinnacle of English and European football. The new head coach is scheduled to begin his work at the AXA Training Centre in early July as the team prepares for the new season.
