Liverpool’s new head coach Andoni Iraola says he’s determined to soak up the “magic”
Liverpool FC’s new head coach says he is determined to soak up the “magic” of his new job and insists he won’t let the pressure change who he is.
Andoni Iraola arrives at Anfield after a successful stint at Bournemouth, stepping into one of the most high-profile roles in English football.
He replaces Arne Slot, who was sacked just a year after guiding the Reds to the Premier League title in his first campaign as head coach.
Speaking for the first time, Iraola acknowledged the scrutiny that comes with the Liverpool hot seat, but says he will face it head-on.
Andoni Iraola replaces Arne Slot, who was sacked just a year after leading Liverpool to the Premier League title Credit: PA
He said: “I understand this is a massive club. Everything I’m going to say now is going to get the biggest scrutiny.
"You have to be very aware of the mistakes but I wouldn’t like to be too careful.”
Unlike his predecessor, Iraola says he is keen to immerse himself fully in the life of the city.
While Slot commuted from near Manchester Airport to be closer to family in the Netherlands, the Basque-born coach says he wants to experience Liverpool to the fullest.
“I’m not going to live in my bubble, just training ground, home. I would like to go to the city, experience the city," he said.
"But it’s part of the magic of being the Liverpool manager and I would like not to change too much.”
Iraola’s first job will be to re-energise a Liverpool squad that slumped to fifth last season, just months after their historic title win.
Mo Salah and Andy Robertson departing he club this summer. Credit: PA
With star names like Mo Salah and Andy Robertson departing this summer, he says he knows there is plenty of work to do, both on and off the pitch.
He said: “We’ve signed two players already but we need more. I want the players here from day one, ready to train for pre-season, but I understand football doesn’t work like this.
"The club is working hard for new signings and I’m trying to help too,”
Despite the challenge, Iraola says his philosophy won’t change. He said: “I talked to the players and staff about the things that weren’t working and things we think we can do differently.
"I have the advantage that the players already know what we are going to demand in terms of style of play, but we will have time to know each other.”
Above all, Iraola wants to deliver a brand of football that reconnects the team with the Anfield faithful.
He said: “Football, and especially Liverpool, is about connecting: connecting with the people, connecting with our supporters. We have to be a team that works hard, is intense, aggressive, and vertical, so everyone can feel comfortable supporting this team.”
Liverpool fans will be hoping Iraola’s approach brings both stability and excitement back to Anfield and that he can write the next chapter in the club’s storied history.
Want a quick and expert briefing on the biggest news stories? Listen to our latest podcasts to find out What You Need To Know
Artwork for podcast What You Need To Know
Artwork for podcast What You Need To Know