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Sports World News Updated Jun 2, 2026

Liverpool in Talks with Andoni Iraola to Replace Arne Slot as Manager

Liverpool has initiated talks with former Bournemouth head coach Andoni Iraola to replace Arne Slot, who has stepped down after the season. Slot delivered Liverpool's 20th league title in his first season and was named LMA Manager of the Year. Sporting director Richard Hughes, who previously appointed Iraola at Bournemouth, is leading the search for a new manager. Iraola impressed with an 18-game unbeaten run, securing Bournemouth a sixth-place finish and Europa League qualification.

Liverpool begin talks with ex-Bournemouth coach to repace Slot

London, June 2

Liverpool has begun talks with former Bournemouth head coach Androni Iraola following Arne Slot parting ways with the club after this season, reported Sky Sports.

Slot will step down as head coach with immediate effect, and the club has begun the search for his successor. Having joined the club in June 2024, Arne went on to deliver Liverpool's 20th league title in his first season in charge, ending the 2024-25 campaign as LMA Manager of the Year, having also guided the team to the Carabao Cup final and the last 16 of the Champions League, according to the club's website. He subsequently oversaw Champions League qualification for the next season, their second successive in a row. The Reds also reached the quarter-finals of the same competition this year.

The process of appointing the new manager is being spearheaded by sporting director Richard Hughes, who had appointed Iraola to the top post at Bournemouth in 2023.

The talks are underway and the Liverpool's main objective stays to identifying and recruit a manager that is in line with their playing style. Though the multi-time champions want to appoint the manager as quickly as possible, the focus is also on making the right appointment through a proper choice.

Iraola had an 18-game unbeaten run with Bournemouth in the Premier League second half, leading them to a sixth-place finish and a slot in the UEFA Europa League.

— ANI

Reader Comments

Sarah B

As an Indian who follows EPL closely, this feels like a risky move. Slot delivered the title and UCL qualification—why change? Iraola is good but unproven at a giant club. Richard Hughes better know what he's doing.

Ananya R

Typical Liverpool—always in transition! 😅 Slot gave us a league title and now gone? Iraola's style is high-pressing, which suits Anfield. But let's see if he can handle the big egos. Our Indian fans deserve stability, yaar!

James A

Iraola's Bournemouth was a joy to watch—organized and fearless. But moving from mid-table to title contenders is a massive jump. Liverpool fans, be patient. And yes, I watch from Mumbai at 1:30 AM! ⏰⚽

Vikram M

Respect to Slot for delivering the title, but walking away after one season feels odd. Hope the club doesn't make a hasty decision. Iraola has potential, but Liverpool is not Bournemouth. Need someone with big-club experience.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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