Liverpool consider Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola as an ideal replacement for their under-pressure manager Arne Slot.
According to a report from TEAMtalk, Liverpool have identified Andoni Iraola as a potential candidate to be their next manager, as the pressure continues to mount on Arne Slot. The Reds could end up sacking the Dutch manager at the end of the campaign, and if they do, Iraola will be their top target to replace him.
The 43-year-old has completely transformed Bournemouth since taking charge in the summer of 2023. The Cherries have been on fire under him this season and are on the verge of securing European football for the first time in their history.
His high-intensity, pressing-oriented and attacking brand of football has earned a lot of plaudits in recent seasons. There are quite a few top clubs that admire him for what he has achieved at Bournemouth. With him set to leave the club at the end of the season, there is no shortage of interest in his services.
Crystal Palace, who are on the lookout for an ideal successor to Oliver Glasner, consider Iraola a perfect fit for their setup. He could help them build on the success they have achieved under the Austrian manager. The Eagles have already made their move and remain hopeful about tempting him to Selhurst Park.
Liverpool want Iraola to replace Slot
Liverpool have now entered the race for the 43-year-old, and they could end up battling it out with the Eagles. The Reds have had a disastrous campaign despite spending a fortune on player transfers in the summer. The results have put a lot of pressure on Arne Slot.
Recent comments by Mohamed Salah and the Merseyside club’s poor form have only intensified scrutiny internally. The club are expected to hold a meeting to discuss his future after the end of the season. While they have publicly talked about backing Slot, the Reds could still end up sacking him.
With the pressure increasing on Slot, Iraola has emerged as a perfect replacement. A lot of people at Anfield admire him, and a firm approach could tempt him. Their sporting director, Richard Hughes, played a massive role in his move to Bournemouth, and now he wants the 43-year-old at Liverpool. The duo shares an exceptional relationship, which could help Liverpool in their pursuit.
While they haven’t held any formal talks with the Spanish manager, he could actually be interested in a switch, as they consider an Anfield move as one of the elite jobs in European football.
