Liverpool appoint Andoni Iraola on two-year deal to replace sacked Arne Slot

Liverpool have confirmed the appointment of Andoni Iraola as their new manager, with the 43-year-old Spaniard signing a two-year contract at Anfield to replace the sacked Arne Slot.

Iraola arrives on Merseyside after three seasons at Bournemouth, where he built a reputation as one of Europe’s most sought-after coaches. He ended his tenure on the south coast by guiding the Cherries to sixth place — their highest ever top-flight finish — securing a spot in next season’s Europa League. Bournemouth had attempted to tie him down to a new long-term deal before Liverpool moved.

Slot’s departure was announced on Saturday following what the club described as a difficult second season. Liverpool had initially intended to retain the Dutchman after the club narrowly secured Champions League qualification, but an end-of-season review prompted a change of course. Iraola had also held preliminary talks with Crystal Palace and Bayer Leverkusen before Slot’s exit was confirmed, after which he quickly emerged as the leading candidate for the Anfield role.

In a statement, Liverpool’s ownership said they believe “the team’s trajectory is best addressed through a change of direction,” while stressing that the decision was not a reflection of Slot’s abilities. “Arne leaves with our gratitude, with a Premier League title to his name, and with the knowledge that he and his family will always be welcomed back at Anfield,” the statement read.

Iraola’s high-energy, pressing-based style of play is expected to resonate with a section of the Liverpool support that grew frustrated with Slot’s more measured approach during a Premier League title defence that saw the Reds finish just three points above Bournemouth. The former Rayo Vallecano head coach will take charge ahead of pre-season, tasked with following up Slot’s first-season achievement of delivering Liverpool’s 20th English league title.