Andoni Iraola appointed Liverpool manager after Bournemouth success

Andoni Iraola, who led Bournemouth to a historic sixth‑place finish and the club’s first ever European qualification, has been appointed manager of Liverpool. The former Athletic Bilbao right‑back left Bournemouth following the expiration of his contract, expressing a desire to bring several members of his coaching staff – Pablo de la Torre, Tommy Elphick, Shaun Cooper and Tom Webber – to Anfield.

Liverpool confirmed the hire, noting Iraola’s three‑year spell at the Vitality Stadium and his previous experience with Rayo Vallecano. In a club media interview he said he was “really excited” to join “one of the biggest clubs in the world” and praised Liverpool’s atmosphere, supporters and ambition. The appointment follows a season in which Liverpool finished fifth in the Premier League and exited early from all cup competitions.

Iraola’s move comes after reported interest from Crystal Palace, AC Milan and Bayer Leverkusen, and signals a new chapter for both the manager and the club as they aim to improve on an underwhelming title defence.