A new chapter is about to begin at Anfield following the dismissal of Arne Slot, who oversaw Liverpool’s highest number of defeats in a single season this millennium.

Andoni Iraola is now virtually confirmed as the man set to replace the Dutchman at Liverpool. The Spanish coach is widely recognised for his high-intensity, aggressive, and relentlessly attacking style of football.

Iraola previously managed Bournemouth from 2023 to 2026, guiding the Cherries to an impressive sixth-place finish in the Premier League last season.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Iraola’s contract with Liverpool will span just two years — a duration consistent with his track record of favouring short-term agreements.

In an interview with BBC Radio Solent last October, Iraola explained his approach to shorter contracts, emphasising that financial terms do not drive his decisions.

“I think Bournemouth is the only time I’ve signed [a contract for] two years. In the case of managers, contracts are not as important as in the players’ cases,” said the Spaniard.

He further elaborated, “I don’t want to continue in a club just because I have a contract. I want to continue because both sides are happy and they want to continue together.”

Iraola has revealed that his managerial philosophy has been shaped by Marcelo Bielsa — his idol and a coach famed for similar short-term commitments — who was ranked No. 77 in FourFourTwo’s list of the greatest managers of all time. Iraola also credited his Spanish footballing culture as an influence.

The Spaniard noted the contrast between managerial tenures in England and elsewhere, with the host pointing out that Premier League managers often sign long-term deals lasting up to six years.

“Signing a contract just to have the assurance that if they sell you, you will receive money… I wouldn’t feel really pleased with this,” continued the former Athletic Bilbao player.

He added, “You have to earn the right every season. Sometimes, even if you don’t get the best results, maybe the club is very happy with your work. And it happens the opposite way.

“Every year has to be a renewal of confidence from both sides — it doesn’t matter what the contract situation is,” said Iraola.

The soon-to-be Liverpool manager is also expected to bring several members of his Bournemouth coaching staff with him to Merseyside, maintaining the successful partnerships he built during his time in the Premier League.