Andoni Iraola is set to follow Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool blueprint by embracing a life in the city in an attempt to build a strong connection with Reds supporters
11:46, 13 Jul 2026Updated 11:53, 13 Jul 2026
KIRKBY, ENGLAND - JULY 07: (THE SUN OUT, THE SUN ON SUNDAY OUT) Andoni Iraola head coach of Liverpool during a training session at AXA Training Centre on July 07, 2026 in Kirkby, England. (Photo by Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
Andoni Iraola will follow Jurgen Klopp's blueprint to help develop a connection with Liverpool fans(Image: Getty Images)
Andoni Iraola is preparing to bring elements of Jurgen Klopp's successful Liverpool blueprint to his new role.
Liverpool's decision to part ways with Arne Slot at the end of May came as a surprise to many, with the Reds enduring a disappointing campaign that saw them finish fifth in the Premier League. Expectations had been high after they were widely backed to successfully defend the title they won in the 2024/25 season, but the team struggled to replicate that form.
Iraola was swiftly appointed as Slot's successor, with his impressive work over three seasons at Bournemouth viewed as a major factor behind Liverpool's decision. The Basque coach's attacking style and tactical approach had caught the attention of Reds sporting director Richard Hughes, who played a key role in bringing him to the club.
During his first press-conference as the Reds head coach, Iraola has acknowledged the unique pressures that come with managing Liverpool, admitting he understands the level of scrutiny that surrounds the role but wants to remain true to himself.
The Spaniard revealed his excitement at embracing life around the club and in the city, insisting he does not want the responsibility of being the Reds boss to change his personality or approach. “I want to think I know. Until I go through certain experiences I would not fully know, I understand it is a massive club" Iraola said.
"Everything I say is scrutinized but I would like to act quite normal. I want to go the city, I want pictures but it's part of the magic, no? Of being the LFC boss, I would like not to change too much."
When Klopp was appointed as Liverpool's manager in 2015, he quickly embraced life in Liverpool after enjoying a night out in the city just hours after speaking at his first press conference as Reds manager. The German was spotted chatting with supporters at the Old Blind School bar on Hardman Street, offering an early indication of the strong connection he would go on to build with the club's fanbase.
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Meanwhile, Slot took a slightly different approach. During his first few months living in England, Slot was spotted enjoying some of the area's top restaurants, including Michelin-starred Moor Hall in Aughton and Bacaro on Castle Street in Liverpool city centre.
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However, he chose against moving into the famous Formby property on Merseyside that was previously home to former Liverpool managers Klopp and Brendan Rodgers, with the Dutchman instead reportedly opting to settle closer to Manchester.
The decision for Slot not to move into the property, which was previously owned by Steven Gerrard, forced Liverpool to put the house up for sale. The house on Millionaire's Row was eventually sold more than a year after it was placed on the market.
Slot's wife and two children also remained in the Netherlands to allow them to complete their exams and continue their education without disruption.