Liverpool's new manager Andoni Iraola has set out his vision: give fans "a team they can be proud of" – and he wants more signings to do it.
The 44-year-old Spaniard signed a two-year contract with Liverpool last month, replacing Arne Slot who was sacked on 30 May after a disappointing second season. Liverpool finished fifth in the Premier League last season – one place above Iraola's former club Bournemouth. Iraola brings experience from Bournemouth, Rayo Vallecano, Mirandes and AEK Larnaca, and says he is ready for one of football's biggest jobs.
“Explains new Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola: his background, style, transfer plans, and what fans can expect.”
Iraola's approach is built on intensity and connection with supporters. "We have to be a team that works hard – is intense, aggressive, and vertical – so everyone can identify and everyone can feel comfortable supporting this team," he said at his first press conference. He acknowledged Liverpool fans bemoaned last season's lack of dynamism and wants to recreate the atmosphere he experienced at Anfield as an opponent.
The club have already signed centre-back Jeremy Jacquet and left winger Victor Munoz for a combined £94.5m, but Iraola told owners Fenway Sports Group he needs more. Right-back is a priority after injuries to Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley. He added: "The club are working on this."
Why it matters for UK readers For Liverpool supporters, Iraola represents a fresh start after Slot's sacking. His track record at Bournemouth – including leading them to their first European qualification – suggests he can deliver entertaining, high-intensity football. The shorter two-year contract reflects Iraola's career pattern and his belief that "managers have to earn the right to continue", which may create pressure from the start. With the World Cup ongoing, pre-season is fragment ed, but Iraola says he's spoken to players and given eliminated stars time off.
Q: Who is Andoni Iraola? Andoni Iraola is a Spanish football manager who previously coached Bournemouth, Rayo Vallecano, Mirandes and AEK Larnaca. He led Bournemouth to European qualification before joining Liverpool on a two-year deal in June 2026.
Q: Why did Liverpool sack Arne Slot? Arne Slot was sacked on 30 May after a disappointing second season in charge, where Liverpool finished fifth in the Premier League and fans criticised the team's lack of dynamism.
Q: What are Liverpool's transfer plans under Iraola? Liverpool have signed Jeremy Jacquet and Victor Munoz for £94.5m total, but Iraola wants more signings before the summer window closes in September. Right-back is a priority area for reinforcement.
What happens next Iraola's first pre-season is underway, but disrupted by the World Cup – only Alexis Mac Allister remains at the tournament. He will work with available players and integrate new signings. The club continue to pursue transfer targets, with fans watching closely to see if FSG back their new manager with the squad he needs.