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Liverpool have parted ways with Arne Slot following an inconsistent campaign in the Premier League. The club is now strongly linked with Andoni Iraola, who has emerged as the front-runner to become the next manager at Anfield. Sporting director Richard Hughes previously appointed the Spanish coach at Bournemouth in the summer of 2023 when he worked there. Since then, Iraola has built a reputation as one of the most promising managers in the Premier League. It is therefore understandable that the Reds see him as the ideal candidate to lead their rebuild after a disappointing spell under Slot last season.

Under Iraola’s leadership, Bournemouth secured an impressive sixth-place finish in the Premier League last season, ending just three points adrift of fifth-placed Liverpool. Although they narrowly missed out on UEFA Champions League qualification on the final day, Iraola’s side earned widespread praise for their resilient performances, including an 18-match unbeaten streak during the campaign.

As Bournemouth’s manager, Iraola often employed a 4-2-3-1 formation—similar to the tactical setup used by Slot at Liverpool. This could ensure a smooth transition if the Spaniard takes charge at Anfield and manages to extract the best performance from his new squad.

Iraola’s contract with Bournemouth expires at the end of this month, opening the possibility of Liverpool appointing him as their new head coach this summer. However, whether he can handle the enormous expectations and pressure that come with managing a club of Liverpool’s stature remains to be seen.

As previously noted, Iraola favours the 4-2-3-1 system, which could allow him to position Florian Wirtz in his preferred number ten role, supported by Rio Ngumoha, Cody Gakpo, and Jeremie Frimpong on the flanks.

Liverpool are expected to have Alexander Isak fully fit for the upcoming season. However, with Hugo Ekitike sidelined by a long-term injury and Mohamed Salah’s departure confirmed, Iraola would face some key gaps in the squad that need addressing if he takes charge this summer.

While turning around Liverpool’s fortunes may take time, Iraola’s experience working within limited budgets should serve him well. He is known for identifying and developing cost-effective talent, which could benefit the Reds during the transfer window.

Iraola’s Bournemouth teams were renowned for their high pressing and fast, direct attacking transitions. Such a proactive style aligns well with the expectations of Liverpool supporters, who desire an energetic and entertaining brand of football. If Iraola can make smart moves in the transfer market and instil his tactical philosophy during pre-season, his methods could very well rejuvenate Liverpool’s campaign in the coming year.