Andoni Iraola has spoken for the first time as the new head coach of Liverpool, with the Spaniard sending a message that will get Reds fans excited for the upcoming season
20:05, 04 Jun 2026Updated 20:14, 04 Jun 2026
Andoni Iraola is the new Liverpool head coach.
Andoni Iraola is the new Liverpool head coach.(Image: Nikki Dyer - Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
Andoni Iraola has been confirmed as the new Liverpool head coach — and sent a message that should get fans excited for the upcoming season and beyond.
It is understood that a key determinant in wanting to hire the former Bournemouth boss is his style of play, which is high-intensity and front-footed. Iraola developed a reputation for exciting football on the south coast and will be looking to being that to Anfield.
On Thursday, he was confirmed as the man to take the helm ahead of a big summer where plenty of activity in the transfer market will be required to give him the best chance of success.
"For me, football is about emotions and about passion," Iraola told club media.
"I’m quite cool-headed probably, during my life quite rational, I would say. But it’s true that when the game starts, when you have to celebrate a goal, something is inside, no?
"I think this inner energy, you need it as a player, you need it as a supporter, you need it as a coach. (There is) no better place than Anfield."
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - JUNE 04: (THE SUN OUT, THE SUN ON SUNDAY OUT) Andoni Iraola new manager of Liverpool Football Club at Anfield on June 04, 2026 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)(Image: Getty Images)
Taking over from Arne Slot, who was fired last weekend, Iraola will be tasked with getting more out of a group of players that toiled for much of last term.
"I think Liverpool gives me the chance to coach top players, and top players give you the chance to fight for titles and to win titles," he added.
"Obviously when you arrive at a place, you cannot promise everything. You cannot promise. But it’s true that I understand where I’m coming and what is expected. I’m ready for the challenge."
Iraola was in charge of Bournemouth for three seasons. Last August, on the opening day of the season and when Liverpool was still league champion, Federico Chiesa scored a dramatic winner at Anfield against his Cherries.
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"I’ve been the other side — I still remember the goal Chiesa scored," Iraola continued.
"We were there with 2-2 thinking that probably we could take something. He scored and the place erupted. It was crazy, no? I want now to feel this from the other side.
"At the beginning, when you arrive at any club, I think you need to kind of prove a little bit yourself. You need to earn the right also to belong. I want to do this as quickly as possible so I can also celebrate with them and I can be part properly of those celebrations."