Liverpool have struck a verbal agreement with Andoni Iraola to become the club's next head coach, with a formal announcement expected within days.

Iraola, who built an outstanding reputation at Bournemouth before departing at the end of the 2025/26 season, emerged as the front-runner immediately after Liverpool sacked Arne Slot last Saturday. The Dutchman was dismissed just one year after guiding the club to the Premier League title.

The process was driven by Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes, who first brought Iraola to Bournemouth in 2023 before himself making the move to Anfield the following year. Hughes's intimate knowledge of the Spaniard made him the natural candidate to lead the search.

Iraola's demands for his coaching staff

Sky Sports News understands that Iraola has made clear he wants Pablo de la Torre, Tommy Elphick, Shaun Cooper, and Tom Webber alongside him on the coaching staff at Anfield. Liverpool have not yet approached any of those individuals, with such conversations contingent on the formal agreement being finalised with Iraola himself.

The club's primary objective throughout the search has been to find a manager whose preferred playing style aligns with Liverpool's footballing identity — a profile Iraola fits closely.

Bournemouth's remarkable season

Iraola leaves Bournemouth having elevated the club to new heights. The Cherries put together an 18-game unbeaten run across the second half of the Premier League season, ultimately securing sixth place and UEFA Europa League football for the campaign ahead. Bournemouth finished just three points behind Liverpool in the final standings.

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