Andoni Iraola could be in Liverpool's plans should Arne Slot be dismissed before next season, and that could see the current Bournemouth boss reunited with Richard Hughes at Anfield
06:00, 08 May 2026
Richard Hughes and Andoni Iraola look on during an U21 Professional Development League match between AFC Bournemouth and Colchester United U21
Richard Hughes and Andoni Iraola could be reunited if recent reports are to be believed(Image: Getty Images)
Richard Hughes could be reunited with Andoni Iraola this summer if recent rumors around Arne Slot’s future are to be believed.
The Liverpool boss has been under pressure throughout what has been a disappointing campaign following last season’s title triumph. As the summer draws close, and with the Reds guaranteed to finish without a trophy and still not yet guaranteed a place in next season’s Champions League, the speculation is not going away in a hurry.
There is plenty of talk about who could replace Slot should he be fired, with Xabi Alonso the most consistent name touted, but Iraola has also emerged as a possibility recently.
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The Bournemouth boss has already confirmed he will be leaving his current position in the summer, although there is no word yet on what his next job will be. According to The i Paper, it could be Liverpool.
It’s claimed that Iraola will be “among the candidates considered” should the Reds part with Slot. Were that to happen, then Liverpool could hold an advantage over the likes of Chelsea, which is also said to be considering the Spaniard.
The Reds’ sporting director Hughes already knows all about Iraola, having been the man who brought him to the Premier League in his previous role with Bournemouth.
BOURNEMOUTH, ENGLAND - MAY 03: Andoni Iraola, Manager of AFC Bournemouth, looks on prior to the Premier League match between Bournemouth and Crystal Palace at Vitality Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Bournemouth, England. (Photo by Steve Bardens/Getty Images)
Iraola is reportedly under consideration by Liverpool should Arne Slot be fired(Image: Getty Images)
At the time, it was a shock move from the Cherries after Gary O’Neil had earned plaudits for his efforts in steering the club away from relegation, but it has certainly paid off over the years, with Bournemouth now looking to wrap up European qualification for the first time in its history.
Iraola and Hughes clearly had a good working relationship, as made evident by the former’s comments when the latter departed for Liverpool in 2024.
“I’ve always said it, he was maybe the main reason, or definitely a big, important part of the decision to come here,” Iraola said at the time (as per the Liverpool Echo). “He has been really helpful with me personally, with all the staff.
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“I think he is very good at his job. He has set everything here - the scouting department, the management of the players individually when they come here. There is an adaptation process where he is really helpful with the players and me as a coach.
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“I am really happy for him, because I suppose it is a very good chance for him. I obviously wish him all the best. I am sure he will also be doing a very good job there at Liverpool.”
Part of that job for Hughes will involve making a big decision on Slot’s future and whether he does call upon Iraola once again.
As things stand, Liverpool does look to be standing by Slot, with no change expected before next season. Should that situation change though, Hughes may well be getting back in touch with his former colleague.