Liverpool’s search for a new head coach has already accelerated, with Andoni Iraola quickly emerging as a candidate to replace Arne Slott at Anfield.
David Ornstein said Liverpool may continue to talk to other candidates, including Stuttgart manager Sebastian Hoeness and Reims manager Pierre Sarge, but Iraola is currently the frontrunner.
The 43-year-old Spaniard recently left Bournemouth and is said to have a close relationship with Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes, which could be important as the club looks to make a quick move.
The Times also reported that Iraola was the top candidate for the post after Slott was fired.
Slott’s departure is a big decision for Liverpool. He achieved a club record-tying 20th league title in his first season and left with the Premier League title under his belt.
Liverpool sack Slott after end-of-season review
However, there was little waiting for football and Liverpool’s poor follow-up campaign forced the hierarchy to take action.
The Reds finished fifth in the Premier League, and after an end-of-season review, the club decided that changes were necessary.
This makes Iraora a very interesting option. He built an exciting Bournemouth side known for their pressing, intensity and brave attacking football.
His team plays with energy and that’s important at Liverpool, as supporters usually prefer attacking, front-foot football.
The connection with Richard Hughes cannot be ignored either. Hughes knows Iraola well from his time at Bournemouth and that familiarity could make the process smoother.
Liverpool are in the midst of a summer of big changes, so it could be worthwhile for coaches and sporting directors to work together from the start.
Reds are carefully evaluating their options
Hoeness and Sage are also interesting names. Hoeness achieved remarkable results in Germany, and Sage won praise in France.
But Iraola now feels like a more natural fit as he knows the Premier League and doesn’t need much time to understand English football.
Mr Iraola would be a bold but wise appointment. He’s not a big name for Liverpool to chase, but he might be the right profile.
Liverpool need energy, clarity and a coach who can reconnect the team with a high-intensity identity.
The risks are clear. Bournemouth and Liverpool are completely different worlds. At Anfield, every bad result is a crisis.
Liverpool could solve their right-back problem in July due to the terms of his release clause.
