Next Liverpool manager: Bookies SUSPEND betting on Andoni Iraola replacing Arne Slot | OneFootball

Liverpool have started the process to appoint a replacement

Andoni Iraola is edging closer to becoming the next Liverpool head coach, according to bookmakers.

Liverpool have confirmed that the process to appoint a successor to Arne Slot is under way after parting company with the Dutchman on Saturday.

Prior to the announcement, reports claimed that Iraola was favourite to replace Slot in the Anfield dugout, with the Spanish tactician now a free agent following his Bournemouth exit.

According to Betfair, Iraola was as short as 1/5 to be the next Liverpool manager before the market was suspended.

A spokesperson said: “The appointment of reported long-time target Andoni Iraola at Liverpool may be edging closer as betting has been suspended on the 43-year-old to replace Arne Slot at Anfield after Slot’s exit was confirmed on Saturday.

Xabi Alonso had previously been tipped to take over at Liverpool, but was not in the frame after agreeing to become Chelsea manager from July 1.

Arne Slot has been sacked as Liverpool head coach

PA

Explaining the decision to part ways with Slot, Liverpool issued a statement saying a "different approach" is needed following a disappointing 2025-26 season.

“This was evident when he agreed to take over as head coach, when he guided us to the Premier League title and throughout the season just ended when he faced considerable challenges and burdens.

“At the same time, we have collectively come to the conclusion that change is necessary in order for the club to keep moving forward. Again, it must be stressed that this is not a decision which has been reached lightly, anything but.

“We would like to take this opportunity to place on record our appreciation for Arne, who will always hold a special place in the history of this football club as the coach who delivered Liverpool’s 20th league title.

“That accomplishment – made all the more remarkable as it arrived in his very first season in charge – was built on outstanding coaching and leadership every single day.

“As such, we can only wish Arne well in the next stage of his coaching career, with our expectation being that he will continue to be successful. We do so in the knowledge that his Liverpool legacy is intact and will become yet more meaningful in the years and decades to come.

“Nevertheless, the conclusion we have come to is built on a belief that the team’s trajectory is best addressed through a change of direction. That does not diminish the work Arne has done here, or the respect we have for him. Nor is it a reflection of his talents. Rather, it is indicative of the need for a different approach.

“Arne leaves with our gratitude, with a Premier League title to his name, and with the knowledge that he and his family will always be welcomed back at Anfield.”