Liverpool are wasting no time following Arne Slot’s sacking, with free agent Andoni Iraola emerging as the frontrunner to take charge at Anfield.
Slot was dismissed on Saturday, just one year after delivering Liverpool’s 20th league title — a decision that had been building for weeks, particularly after Mohamed Salah’s thinly-veiled social media dig at the manager’s style, which was liked by several first-team players.
Following a fifth-place Premier League finish, Fenway Sports Group acted decisively — and according to Fabrizio Romano, their minds are already made up. “Liverpool decision is made,” Romano stated. “Iraola will be the next manager.”
The Spaniard recently steered Bournemouth to the best league finish in their history, and his close relationship with Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes — who originally brought him to the Cherries — is seen as a key factor in the move.
With the transfer window opening June 15, Liverpool will also need serious reinforcements. Here are four names that could follow Iraola to Anfield:
Rayan — The 19-year-old Brazilian has shone at Bournemouth since his £24.7m arrival from Vasco da Gama, registering five goals and two assists. Liverpool have been monitoring him closely, though PSG and Real Madrid are also keen. A reunion with Iraola adds extra appeal.
Nico Schlotterbeck — With Ibrahima Konate departing, Liverpool need a partner for Virgil van Dijk. The Borussia Dortmund centre-back fits the bill, and a release clause of around £52m is reportedly available to a select few clubs — Liverpool among them. However, the clause expires around the time of the World Cup final.
Alex Scott — One of the Premier League’s most impressive midfielders this season, Scott offers the composure and ball-carrying ability Liverpool lacked. His existing rapport with Iraola could make this a straightforward deal.
Bradley Barcola — Liverpool’s search for a Salah successor keeps circling back to the PSG winger. With 13 goals this season and Fabrizio Romano confirming Liverpool “really appreciate” him, Barcola remains firmly on their radar ahead of a big summer rebuild.
