Liverpool Open Formal Talks With Iraola Over Head Coach Role

• Liverpool have opened formal discussions with Andoni Iraola as they search for a successor to Arne Slot.
• Sporting director Richard Hughes is leading the recruitment process, with Iraola emerging as the leading candidate.
• The Reds hope to appoint a new head coach before the World Cup begins on June 11.

Liverpool have taken a significant step in their search for a new manager after opening formal talks with Andoni Iraola regarding the vacant head coach position, sources have told ESPN.

The move comes just days after the dismissal of Arne Slot, whose departure was confirmed on Saturday following a disappointing campaign that ended with Liverpool finishing fifth in the Premier League.

Sporting director Richard Hughes is spearheading the search for Slot’s replacement, with Liverpool’s hierarchy determined to appoint a coach capable of implementing a more aggressive and proactive style of football.

Iraola has quickly emerged as the leading candidate following his impressive work at Bournemouth, where he guided the club to a sixth-place Premier League finish and secured qualification for European competition.

Sources indicate that Liverpool would ideally like to have a new head coach in place before the start of the World Cup on June 11.

However, club officials remain committed to conducting a thorough recruitment process before making a final decision.

While discussions with Iraola have now begun, Liverpool are continuing to assess multiple options as they seek the right candidate to lead the club into its next chapter.

Speculation has also linked several former Liverpool players with potential coaching roles under the next manager.

However, sources have told ESPN that no formal approaches have yet been made to any ex-players regarding positions within the club’s coaching staff.

Iraola’s candidacy has already received public backing from Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard, who believes the Spaniard possesses the qualities required to succeed at Anfield.

“I think he’s done a fabulous job at Bournemouth,” Gerrard told TNT Sports.

“I think his style would suit Liverpool.”

Gerrard acknowledged that Liverpool’s global stature means several elite coaches are likely to be considered but believes Iraola deserves serious consideration.

“Let’s not beat around the bush. Liverpool Football Club is an attractive job for a lot of elite managers around the world,” Gerrard said.

“So I don’t think he’ll be the only name on the table.

“But because of the link to Bournemouth and the guys that have come from Bournemouth to Liverpool in terms of board level, they will know him very well.

“But then there’s other names out there as well that I’m sure will want that Liverpool job. It’s a huge job in world football.

“But potentially to answer your question, I think he should be in the conversation, yes.”

Iraola’s existing relationship with Hughes is viewed as one of the factors working in his favour.

The Liverpool sporting director was instrumental in bringing the Spanish coach to Bournemouth in 2023, and the pair developed a strong professional relationship during their time together on the south coast.

Meanwhile, Slot has broken his silence following his departure, publishing an emotional farewell message to Liverpool supporters.

In an open letter, the Dutchman expressed confidence in the club’s future despite his exit.

“I leave with complete confidence in what lies ahead,” Slot wrote.

“The players who have given so much to this club, who have upheld its values and helped create so many unforgettable moments, have built foundations that will endure.

“At the same time, a new generation is emerging, ready to write its own story and embrace the responsibility that comes with wearing this shirt.

“Change is part of football, but I know that this club will continue to make its people proud.”

As Liverpool’s search intensifies, Iraola remains the strongest contender to take one of the most coveted jobs in world football, with formal negotiations now underway and a decision expected in the coming days.