Liverpool reaches agreement with manager Andoni Iraola

Liverpool is about to start a new chapter on the coaching bench by reaching an agreement with Andoni Iraola.

The Spanish tactician is regarded as the top choice for Anfield following Arne Slot's departure as head coach, and only final formalities remain before he officially signs the contract.

According to expert Fabrizio Romano, negotiations between Liverpool and Iraola have progressed smoothly recently. The two sides have essentially agreed on key terms, while the remaining issues mainly involve the coaching staff composition and the team's development plans for upcoming seasons.

Barring any unforeseen obstacles, the 43-year-old strategist will put pen to paper on a new contract in the coming days and be announced as Liverpool's new head coach.

The decision to choose Iraola shows Liverpool's leadership wants to quickly stabilize the technical staff to prepare for the new season. Unlike many big clubs that often prolong the search for a manager, Anfield acted decisively to build squad and transfer plans early.

Previously, Liverpool surprised the football world by parting ways with Arne Slot just one year after the Dutch manager led the team to win the Premier League. Despite achieving trophy success, the club's board reportedly wants to pursue a long-term project with criteria more suited for the future.

One key reason Iraola stood out among other candidates is his football philosophy. Liverpool still aims to maintain an energetic style, intense pressing, and proactive control—elements that defined the club's identity under Jurgen Klopp. This is precisely the approach that has built Iraola's reputation in English football in recent years.

Last season, the Spanish coach departed Bournemouth after leading the club to sixth place in the Premier League and securing a spot in the Europa League.

That achievement is highly regarded given Bournemouth's financial resources and squad depth compared to the league's giants. Under Iraola's leadership, Bournemouth became a passionate team that applied high pressure, attacked directly, and wasn't afraid to face stronger opponents.

The process of bringing Iraola to Anfield was led by sporting director Richard Hughes. The close relationship between Hughes and Iraola, built during their time together at Bournemouth, played a crucial role in facilitating the negotiations. The mutual understanding between the two key figures is expected to provide a solid foundation for Liverpool's new project.

Alongside finalizing the head coach's contract, Liverpool is also discussing the coaching staff structure. Iraola wishes to bring assistant Tommy Elphick to Anfield. The former Bournemouth center-back is highly regarded for his expertise and experience working with the Spanish manager. Notably, Elphick has been a Liverpool fan since childhood, making the opportunity to join the Merseyside club an appealing prospect.

Born in 1982 in the Basque Country, Iraola had a successful playing career with Athletic Bilbao before retiring at New York City FC in 2016.

After transitioning into coaching, he quickly proved his ability and had three memorable seasons with Bournemouth, achieving a 37% win rate.

Now, the biggest challenge of his career awaits the Spanish manager as he prepares to take over the hot seat at Liverpool, one of the most traditional and ambitious clubs in the world.