New Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has echoed the dressing room approach of predecessor Arne Slot, as Alex Scott emerges as a reported first transfer target at Anfield
08:16, 10 Jun 2026
Andoni Iraola emerges from the Anfield tunnel.
Andoni Iraola will be eager to impress his style on Liverpool(Image: Robin Jones - AFC Bournemouth via Getty Images)
All eyes are firmly fixed on what changes Andoni Iraola will bring to Liverpool. The 43 year old Basque coach built an impressive reputation at his former clubs, Rayo Vallecano and Bournemouth.
While his direct and attacking brand of football has drawn widespread praise and is expected to be on show at Anfield, little is known about his intentions off the pitch. Former Liverpool boss Arne Slot, who was sacked earlier this month, was widely lauded for instilling a measured approach at the club following nine years of Jurgen Klopp's high-intensity philosophy.
The latest development sees Iraola make a remark that appears to align him closely with Slot regarding how he intends to manage his players away from matchday. Meanwhile, the Spaniard is reportedly said to have identified his first transfer target since taking charge at Liverpool.
Iraola's similar stance to Slot
Iraola's attitude towards the Liverpool dressing room at the club's Kirkby training base appears remarkably similar to that of his predecessor. In footage released by the club, entitled Andoni Iraola: The First Day, the Spanish head coach is seen taking in the surroundings of his new base, reports the Liverpool Echo.
Upon entering the changing area, Iraola remarks: "I try not to come because I know the players, they think of it as a safe space." His comments bear a striking resemblance to those of his predecessor Slot. When the Dutchman first visited the training ground following his arrival in the summer of 2024, he voiced his wish for players to communicate openly in the changing room without the feeling of constant scrutiny.
Alex Scott of Bournemouth
Alex Scott of Bournemouth(Image: CameraSport via Getty Images)
"Me being in here, you wouldn't see that that much," Slot said. "Maybe not at all is a bit too much, maybe to call someone and say 'could you come up with me'.
"But after the session, they should talk about us, me, in here, with all the freedom they have, instead of being afraid that I constantly walk around."
While Iraola will undoubtedly leave his own unique mark on the club, fans will be pleased to discover he holds similar values to the Premier League-winning Dutchman.
Iraola's 'initial transfer target'
Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott could reportedly become the first signing under Iraola's management. According to talkSPORT, "noise is growing" surrounding the 23 year old's future, with his connection to Liverpool "one to watch".
The report suggests that worries over Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister's performances last season have led the Liverpool hierarchy to show interest in Scott.
While Bournemouth are said to be eager to tie down the talented playmaker with a fresh contract, it states that he "is a player that Iraola knows well." Comments that are certain to fuel speculation over a potential transfer saw Scott lavish praise on Iraola ahead of the Spaniard's official unveiling at Liverpool. He said: "What can Liverpool expect from Iraola? He is obviously a great manager.
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"You see what we have done as a club at Bournemouth and how we have progressed over the three seasons he was with us.
"I think the way we press out of possession is very aggressive, maybe similar to the early Klopp teams Liverpool had, that fierce aggressiveness and pressing with the wingers. I would say he is similar to that. Liverpool fans should definitely be so excited. He has done a lot for me personally."