It is inevitable, Liverpool's first move under Andoni Iraola

Andoni Iraola Liverpool
© IMAGO - Andoni Iraola Liverpool

Liverpool's first move under Andoni Iraola is now inevitable.

Now that Liverpool fans can finally breathe a sigh of relief and put the Arne Slot era behind them, all eyes are on who will be taking over next. And if the reports are to be believed, that man is going to be Andoni Iraola.

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The former Spanish international has done an outstanding job at Bournemouth, turning them into one of the most exciting teams in the Premier League and even guiding them into the Europa League. It's no surprise that Liverpool have identified him as their top target.

In many ways, Iraola feels like exactly the kind of manager Liverpool supporters have been crying out for. His teams play with intensity, aggression and a clear sense of purpose. Off the pitch, he also comes across as a warm and likeable character who connects well with players and fans alike.

That was one area where Slot often struggled. While he had his qualities, he could sometimes seem a little distant and overly cautious. More importantly, there were long periods during his time at Anfield when it wasn't entirely clear what kind of football he wanted Liverpool to play.

For much of last season, the Reds looked stuck between different ideas, never fully committing to one identity. That uncertainty often showed on the pitch.

With Iraola, Liverpool should be getting something very different.

He has always been committed to a clear footballing philosophy and isn't afraid to stick to it. He trusts his methods, backs his decisions and isn't scared to take risks when necessary.

That kind of conviction could be a huge asset for Liverpool. The excitement around his arrival is understandable, but the real work starts now.

The long yearned after Jurgen Klopp style heavy metal football is likely going to return. There's going to be a level of intensity in this team and that is going to be something exciting to look forward to.

Liverpool will be front footed and proactive again. Pre-season is going to be critical but there are going to be training sessions that are demanding throughout the campaign.

It might take their toll. Ultimately in the long run it will make the players a lot fitter and more prepared to go into battle on matchdays which is what Liverpool have lacked throughout all of last season.

But in order to make Iraola's work effective, he will need additions as well, and not just in terms of player recruitment. Iraola didn't bring a lot of his staff with him when he joined Bournemouth.

However, there was one key personnel who was brought in - Pablo de la Torre. The 36-year-old is a fitness and conditioning coach who has worked with Iraola since he started in management and has been part of his backroom staff at AEK Larnaca and Rayo Vallecano as well.

De la Torre is known as an enthusiastic and passionate character. He will be necessary on the training ground to get Liverpool back to the fitness levels they once were under Klopp.

It's why the first move the Reds have to make under Iraola is to bring him in. Given that this is the direction the Reds want to move towards, it's inevitable.

Especially because De la Torre has already left his role at Bournemouth so he is a free agent and he's ready to be snapped up.

In order to make Iraola's work easier, Liverpool simply have to hire De la Torre.

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