How Andoni Iraola’s Tactics Could Transform Liverpool’s Fortunes Next Season?

Liverpool have recently decided to sack Arne Slot after an inconsistent season in the Premier League. Andoni Iraola is now the clear favourite to take over as the new manager of the Merseyside club. Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes appointed the Spaniard as Bournemouth ’s head coach in the summer of 2023, back when he was working for them. Since then, Iraola has gone on to become one of the best managers in the Premier League. Hence, it is no surprise that the Reds are currently being linked with the Spanish tactician as they look to make a fresh start following a disappointing season under Slot last term.

Iraola managed to lead the Cherries to a strong sixth-placed finish in the Premier League last season, just three points behind fifth-placed Liverpool. However, the Spanish head coach missed out on UEFA Champions League football on the final day. Still, he deserves a ton of credit for helping Bournemouth go on an 18-match unbeaten run in the previous campaign.

As the Bournemouth boss, Iraola preferred to play the 4-2-3-1 formation quite often, similar to what Slot used to deploy at Liverpool last season. Hence, the transition might be seamless if the Spaniard can find a way to get the best out of his players at the Merseyside club.

Iraola will be out of contract at the end of this month, which could open the door for Liverpool to appoint him as their new head coach this summer. However, it remains to be seen whether he can manage the high expectations surrounding a move to Anfield.

NOTTINGHAM, ENGLAND – MAY 24: Andoni Iraola, Manager of AFC Bournemouth , acknowledges the fans after the Premier League match between Nottingham Forest and Bournemouth at the City Ground on May 24, 2026 in Nottingham, England. (Photo by Matthew Lewis/Getty Images)

As mentioned earlier, Iraola loves the 4-2-3-1 formation, so he would be the ideal man to utilise Florian Wirtz in the number ten position and get support from Rio Ngumoha , Cody Gakpo and Jeremie Frimpong from the wide areas.

The Merseyside club should have a fresh Alexander Isak for the new season. However, Hugo Ekitike ’s long-term injury and Mohamed Salah ’s exit have left Iraola with a few holes to fill in the Liverpool squad if he takes over this summer.

Transforming Liverpool’s fortunes for the better could take some time, but Iraola is used to working on a tight budget. Hence, he shouldn’t have any issues bringing in some talented players on the cheap for the Reds this off-season.