Liverpool has reached a verbal agreement with Andoni Iraola to become their new head coach following the dismissal of Arne Slot. The Spaniard, who left Bournemouth at the end of the campaign, quickly emerged as the leading candidate for the position at Anfield.
A formal confirmation of the appointment is expected later this week. Reports indicate that Iraola is preparing to sign a two-year contract, continuing a pattern that has followed him throughout his managerial career.
The 43-year-old has consistently preferred shorter agreements during his time with AEK Larnaca, Mirandes, Rayo Vallecano, and Bournemouth, and that approach appears set to continue with his move to Merseyside.
Coaching staff plans take shape
As preparations for the new era begin, Iraola is eager to bring trusted assistants Tommy Elphick and Shaun Cooper with him to Liverpool. Both men currently work alongside him at Bournemouth and are viewed as important members of his coaching team.
At present, Bournemouth has not received any official communication from either Elphick or Cooper regarding their future plans. Their situations remain unresolved while Liverpool finalise the appointment of their new manager.
Elphick, who supported Liverpool throughout his life, has not yet been contacted by the club. Nevertheless, the prospect of joining the Anfield setup is understood to be one he would welcome.
Elphick weighing up his next move
The former Bournemouth defender recently faced a significant career decision after being offered the managerial position at Bristol City. The 38-year-old chose not to accept the opportunity, preferring instead to evaluate alternative possibilities before committing to his next step.
That decision may now prove significant as Liverpool continue shaping the coaching structure that could accompany Iraola to Anfield.
With the managerial appointment nearing completion, attention is expected to turn toward the composition of the backroom staff and whether further discussions take place with those identified by the incoming coach.
Hughes leads recruitment process
The search for Slot’s replacement has been overseen by sporting director Richard Hughes. His previous working relationship with Iraola during their time together at Bournemouth has played a role in the recruitment process.
Liverpool are determined to complete the transition as quickly as possible and have prioritised a candidate whose footballing philosophy matches the club’s vision. The preference is for proactive, attacking football played with intensity and aggression.
Slot’s departure was confirmed on Saturday, only a year after he led Liverpool to the Premier League title. The club has now moved rapidly to secure a successor, with Iraola poised to take charge.