Liverpool have been told to appoint Andoni Iraola amid their ongoing struggles under Arne Slot this season.
The Anfield side fell to a 4-0 defeat at Manchester City in the FA Cup on Saturday, going winless for the fifth time in their last seven games across all competitions.
The cup defeat only intensified pressure on Slot amid a dismal domestic campaign, with Liverpool sitting fifth in the Premier League table with seven games remaining, 21 points behind leaders Arsenal.
The Anfield hierarchy has remained consistent in their backing for Slot so far, despite heading for a potentially trophyless second season under the Dutchman.
Liverpool Told to Hire Andoni Iraola
Andoni Iraola applauds Bournemouth supporters
Following Saturday’s humbling by Manchester City, talkSPORT presenter Jim Proudfoot suggested Liverpool could look to appoint Iraola amid their disappointing campaign under Slot:
“I think some of the people that you could imagine being his successor are already available. Some of those aren't, Andoni Iraola for instance.
“Richard Hughes, Liverpool's technical director, is a massive admirer. Brought him in at Bournemouth, he's done nothing at Bournemouth that would mean his stock has dropped in any way.
“He's out of contract in the summer, and it wouldn't surprise me if he was one that they wanted to speak to, along with the likes of Xabi Alonso and everybody else.”
Iraola has already attracted interest from Premier League clubs ahead of his contract expiry. The Spanish manager is believed to have rebuffed an approach from Crystal Palace to replace departing Oliver Glasner.
Bournemouth have not given up hope of retaining Iraola beyond this season, although the 'elite' 43-year-old’s stock remains high after an impressive three years with the Cherries.
Iraola led the south coast club to Premier League finishes of 12th and 9th in his first two seasons and is battling for continental football this term.
With seven games remaining, Bournemouth sit just four points off the top seven. However, the Cherries still have to face Arsenal, Manchester City and Newcastle United.
Xabi Alonso to Liverpool Update Emerges
xabi alonso
Liverpool have been told they could face a 'now or never' situation with Xabi Alonso this summer amid their continued backing for Slot.
The Anfield side are believed to be admirers of the former Real Madrid manager, who has been available since leaving the Santiago Bernabeu in January.
Alonso is reportedly seeking a return to coaching this summer, and journalist Lewis Steele believes the Spaniard’s stance could prompt Liverpool to consider hiring him.
“This summer is viewed as a ‘bit of now or never’ situation regarding appointing Xabi Alonso because he's going to take a new job.
“Liverpool will be aware of that when they come to make their mind up on Arne Slot.”
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