Jamie Carragher issues worrying Andoni Iraola verdict as Liverpool close in on appointment

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·3 de junio de 2026

Jamie Carragher issues worrying Andoni Iraola verdict as Liverpool close in on appointment

Liverpool legend has delivered his verdict on the likely managerial appointment

Jamie Carragher has suggested Andoni Iraola may not be the right fit for Liverpool.

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It will be a summer of big transition once again for Liverpool after sacking Arne Slot and reportedly reaching a verbal agreement with Iraola as his successor on a two-year deal.

That paired with the departures of Mohamed Salah, Andy Robertson and Ibrahima Konate will make the summer a time of overhaul and change.

While the writing had been on the wall for some time, Slot’s departure at the weekend did come as somewhat of a a surprise, due to Xabi Alonso agreeing to become Chelsea’s next manager amid strong links over a return to Anfield.

Carragher, speaking on The Overlap, questioned why Alonso was not prioritised by Liverpool if there was any reservations about Slot staying on for another season, given his experience in a high pressure environment.

"I would have changed him (Slot) for Xabi Alonso. As soon as he went to Chelsea, I was thinking that I would keep Slot," Carragher explained. "When I was thinking about Alonso, it was also because he got the best out of Florian Wirtz.

“If you were going to change it, why was it not for Alonso? With Alonso, you have an incredible playing CV, the managers he has been coached by. What he did at Leverkusen.

“He has managed Real Madrid. I know it didn't go well, but he is used to that pressure and scrutiny."

Xabi Alonso will officially start work at Chelsea on July 1, 2026

London Standard

In Carragher’s eyes, not only does Iraola lack the experience managing a football giant like Liverpool to be brought in during a time of struggle, but his playing system does not fit with the current squad.

"If Liverpool chose Iraola over Alonso, it is very worrying for Liverpool," Carragher explained.

"If it is because Alonso wants to play a back three, or his style of play, fair enough. But I am not sure Liverpool has the players to play Iraola's high-pressing game."