Liverpool agree terms in principle with Andoni Iraola to become head coach | OneFootball

Liverpool and Andoni Iraola have agreed terms in principle for him to become head coach. According to NY Times, the 43-year-old is expected to sign a two-year contract, in line with his Bournemouth terms.

Iraola was set to leave Bournemouth when his deal expires at month’s end, and discussions continue over his staff. If all goes to plan, Liverpool intend to appoint and present him before the week ends.

Talks accelerated after Arne Slot was sacked last Saturday, with Anfield chiefs intent on a swift hire and Iraola their first choice. With Iraola keen after leaving Bournemouth, talks focused on personal terms and staff.

He wants Pablo de la Torre, Tommy Elphick, Shaun Cooper and Tom Webber to join him, all part of his Bournemouth set-up. Recruitment will be led by sporting director Richard Hughes, with Michael Edwards, Fenway Sports Group's CEO of football, setting the budget, and Iraola’s input on priorities.

Liverpool believe Iraola can deliver front-foot, attacking football and revive players who lost form last season. Pre-season starts in early July, so time is short.

Across three years at Bournemouth he delivered finishes of 12th, ninth and sixth, securing Europa League qualification for the first time ever.

There are glaring gaps in the squad after the free agent departures of Mohamed Salah, Andy Robertson and Ibrahima Konate. For Curtis Jones and Harvey Elliott, the future is uncertain as they move into the last year of their contracts.

Source: NY Times