Liverpool Begins Discussions with Iraola to Replace Slot

Liverpool and former Bournemouth manager Andoni Ira Iraola have started discussions about the former club’s coach taking over after Arne Slot’s dismissal, Sky Sports reports.

The talks are being overseen by sporting director Richard Hughes, who appointed Iraola at Bournemouth in 2023 before the Spaniard joined Anfield the following year.

Following Slot’s sacking on Saturday, Sky Sports News said Iraola is the leading candidate and that formal negotiations were expected to begin earlier this week. Those negotiations are now underway.

Liverpool’s priority is to find a coach who best matches the club’s preferred style of play. While the club aims to make a decision quickly, it wants to ensure the appointment is correct and follows a thorough process.

Also Read: Iraola: I’ve No Plans To Replace Amorim As Man United Manager

The club has not approached any other individuals for coaching roles; such moves would only be considered once the discussions with Iraola reach an advanced stage.

Iraola was recruited by Hughes during his Bournemouth tenure and achieved considerable success at the Vitality Stadium.

During the second half of the 2025/26 Premier League season, the Cherries went 18 games unbeaten, finished sixth in the table, and qualified for the Europa League. They ended the season just three points behind Liverpool.

James Agberebi

James is a sport content creator and also does analysis on sports. Also, James has covered international matches involving both Nigeria’s men and women national teams. Facebook : James Agberebi