Deal Done: Liverpool accept Andoni Iraola's first major request

Liverpool have reportedly accepted Andoni Iraola's first major request to take over as head coach.

It seems certain now that Andoni Iraola will take over as Liverpool head coach. Arne Slot left at the weekend, leaving the spot vacant and the Reds have wasted absolutely no time in finding a replacement.

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Iraola is the pick, with Richard Hughes moving to hire the guy he hired in his previous job. There's plainly trust in Iraola.

Enough that Liverpool have reportedly accepted his first request, too. The Athletic reports that Iraola wanted a two-year contract to take over, much as he had with Bournemouth.

Liverpool have accepted the short-term commitment, verbally agreeing the deal on Tuesday. Now it should be a matter of formalities to get it done.

It's an interesting one, though. Iraola has always wanted to be low-commitment with his roles but that's not necessarily something that lends itself to long-term planning for a club.

But perhaps Liverpool would also like that. They're taking a bit of a risk with Iraola - a coach who has never operated at the top level, nor won major trophies.

So if things don't work out, this is a much lowered risk. Everyone can call it a day much sooner than if this were an expensive four or five-year contract.

Maybe this is the best for everyone, then?

Andoni Iraola: Situation Summary

Bournemouth Campaign and Stats

As of 3 June 2026, Andoni Iraola has concluded a historic tenure with AFC Bournemouth. The 43-year-old Spanish manager enjoyed a sensational final campaign, guiding the Cherries to a club-best sixth-place finish in the Premier League. Following a spectacular 18-match unbeaten streak during the season, Iraola successfully secured European qualification for the first time in Bournemouth's history, sealing a spot in the upcoming UEFA Europa League. Having already announced in April that he would depart at the end of his contract, he leaves the Vitality Stadium with legendary status.

Anfield Agreement in Principle

Now a free agent, the Basque tactician is on the verge of a major Premier League move. Following the sudden departure of Arne Slot, Liverpool have identified Iraola as their absolute priority to take over the vacancy. Reports indicate that the Reds have now reached a verbal agreement in principle on a two-year contract, with Iraola beginning to assemble his backroom staff ahead of an official announcement.