Andoni Iraola is reportedly in line to become Liverpool's next manager after Arne Slot was fired, and the former Bournemouth boss has already worked with the Reds' sporting director Richard Hughes
22:39, 07 May 2026Updated 14:30, 30 May 2026
(Image: Getty Images)
Richard Hughes could be about to be reunited with Andoni Iraola, with the former Bournemouth boss reportedly set to be appointed as Liverpool's next manager.
The Reds are looking for a new boss after the shock decision was made to fire Arne Slot. The Dutchman - who had been backed by the club right up until the end of the season - leaves having claimed a Premier League title in his first year, although his final campaign led to considerable backlash from supporters during games.
The search is now on for his successor, although reports suggest that Liverpool may have already found its man.
According to Fabrizio Romano, the former Bournemouth boss will take over at Liverpool. “Andoni Iraola, set to become the next Liverpool manager as revealed earlier today!” he posted on X.
Negotiations are said to be moving forward quickly, although Liverpool is claimed to have already made the decision to appoint the 43-year-old.
The Reds’ sporting director Hughes will be leading the push for a new boss, and he already knows all about Iraola, having been the man who brought him to the Premier League in his previous role with Bournemouth.
Richard Hughes and Andoni Iraola look on during an U21 Professional Development League match between AFC Bournemouth and Colchester United U21
Richard Hughes appointed Andoni Iraola as Bournemouth boss in 2023(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 certainly paid off over the years, with Bournemouth now set to play in European 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.”
It now seems as though Iraola could be joining Hughes at Anfield, with a big summer lying in wait. There is a lot riding on Liverpool's next appointment, and the Spaniard will hope he can be the man to get the Reds challenging for trophies again next season.
An original version of this article was first published on May 8, 2026.