Andoni Iraola took over as Liverpool manager in June 2026, signing a two-year contract after Arne Slot was sacked on May 30 [1, 2, 3, 4]. Liverpool finished fifth in the 2025-26 Premier League under Slot, missing out on Champions League qualification [1, 3, 4].

Iraola, 44, previously managed AFC Bournemouth from 2023 to 2026. There, he led the club to a record-high sixth-place finish and secured Europa League qualification in the 2025-26 season [1, 3, 4, 5]. He said he understands the challenge ahead but is ready for the Anfield stage. “I want to think I understand [what it means to be Liverpool boss]. Probably not until you are here and until you go through certain experiences, I will not fully know. But I am here to experience those situations, I am ready for it,” Iraola said [5].

In his first press conference on July 13, Iraola called for further reinforcements beyond the two new signings Liverpool have made. The club signed center-back Jeremy Jacquet from Stade Rennais and winger Victor Munoz from Osasuna [1, 3, 4, 5]. “Obviously, we have signed two players already but we need more players. We know this. The club is working on this,” he said [1]. He acknowledged the challenge of replacing key departures including Mohamed Salah, Andy Robertson, and Ibrahima Konaté [5].

Iraola plans to implement a high-pressing, progressive, and attacking style but will adapt to the players and Liverpool traditions. He highlighted the importance of intensity and connection with supporters. “I’ve been on the other side of it at Anfield. I’ve experienced the goal that [Federico] Chiesa scored on the first day of last season. You can feel the stadium and I would love to have this every time we play - but that has to come from us, from inside the pitch,” he said [2].

Liverpool currently have long-term injuries to Hugo Ekitike, Conor Bradley, and Giovanni Leoni which adds to Iraola’s challenges [1, 3, 4]. He expressed humility ahead of his debut season, saying he must prove himself at a club of Liverpool’s stature. “I feel I have a lot of things to prove in terms of I’ve never coached a club as big as Liverpool. It’s a big challenge for me... There always has to be that first moment,” Iraola said [6].

Liverpool and Iraola will continue their preparations as the club pursues more signings this summer to compete in the 2026-27 season.