Liverpool icon Steven Gerrard has shared his thoughts on the club’s hunt for a new manager, suggesting that Bournemouth head coach Andoni Iraola has the tactical qualities that align well with the Reds’ footballing philosophy. However, Gerrard also cautioned that the Spaniard will have to contend with intense competition for one of the most prestigious managerial roles in global football following the dismissal of Arne Slot.

Gerrard supports Iraola as a potential Anfield successor

Following the major upheaval in Liverpool’s managerial setup, Gerrard pinpointed Iraola as a strong contender to take charge at Anfield. Speaking to TNT Sports, the former Liverpool captain acknowledged that Iraola’s work on the south coast has not gone unnoticed. When asked if the 43-year-old would be the right choice, Gerrard responded, “I think potentially, yes. He’s done a fantastic job at Bournemouth, and his style of play would suit Liverpool perfectly.”

Nevertheless, Gerrard highlighted that a position of such magnitude naturally attracts interest from top-tier coaches. “Let’s be honest—Liverpool Football Club is one of the most appealing jobs in the world for elite managers,” Gerrard continued. “So, I don’t think he’ll be the only name under discussion. But given the existing connections between Bournemouth and Liverpool at board level, they’ll know him extremely well.”

'Right timing' behind Slot’s departure

Although Slot departed Merseyside after delivering a Premier League title, a disappointing second campaign saw the team drop to fifth place. Gerrard admitted that while the decision was initially surprising, it made sense upon reflection due to the team’s dip in performance. “In the last 10 games of last season and for most of this one, we haven’t looked like Liverpool. The style has been tough to watch—it’s felt disjointed and broken. When I heard the news today, my first reaction was shock, but after thinking about it, I believe it’s probably the right time,” Gerrard explained.

Despite his criticism, Gerrard praised Slot for his earlier success, emphasizing that his contribution should not be forgotten. He noted that Slot’s first season was outstanding and that he would be “remembered forever” for guiding Liverpool to their 20th league championship. However, with the club enduring 19 defeats in the latest campaign, ownership group FSG decided that change was necessary.

Liverpool aiming to revive their ‘heavy metal football’ identity

According to reports from The Telegraph, Fenway Sports Group made the decision to part ways with Slot “with great reluctance,” acknowledging his role in delivering the 20th league title. However, the leadership now aims to return to the high-energy, pressing football that defined the Jurgen Klopp era. This shift reportedly aligns with the sentiments of Mohamed Salah, who has voiced concerns about the team’s loss of tactical direction in recent months.

Finding the next tactical leader

While Iraola remains among the leading candidates due to his commitment to an intense pressing game, other prominent names have also been linked with the vacancy. Germany’s head coach Julian Nagelsmann and Paris Saint-Germain boss Luis Enrique are both considered strong options as Liverpool look for a manager capable of restoring their dominance in the Premier League. The timing of the search has sparked frustration among fans, particularly following Xabi Alonso’s recent appointment at Chelsea.

With the managerial position now officially open, the Liverpool board faces mounting pressure to appoint a coach who can oversee a summer rebuild and reestablish the club’s trademark high-tempo style that supporters have long admired.