Following Liverpool’s announcement a few days ago that Arne Slot would be relieved of his duties as manager at the end of the season, names of candidates to take the helm at Anfield Road began to surface. Andoni Iraola’s name wasn’t mentioned much, nor was he expected to be the one chosen, but the Reds’ ownership moved quickly to sign one of the breakout managers of recent seasons.

Several weeks ago, the former Athletic Club player announced he would not be staying at Bournemouth, and there was speculation that he might return home to take the helm at San Mamés. There were also rumors linking him to Chelsea, but the Stamford Bridge side has opted for another Basque coach: Xabi Alonso.

But those aren’t the clubs most frequently linked to Andoni Iraola. The one that seemed like his next destination was Crystal Palace. The Londoners know Oliver Glasner won’t be staying on and went after the then-Bournemouth manager for next season. But Liverpool’s entry into the race for one of the hottest managers of the moment has changed everything. Anfield Road is a whole different ballgame.

Bournemouth’s History

Andoni Iraola arrived at Bournemouth three seasons ago with a clear goal: to secure survival and establish the club in the Premier League. And he has achieved it comfortably. In his first season, he finished in a commendable 12th place, mid-table and without struggling to avoid relegation to the Championship.

The goal for the upcoming season was to maintain the same level and, if possible, improve their standing. And what he did was finish in ninth place with a total of 56 points. It was the club’s all-time record in the Premier League. Furthermore, the level of play displayed by the team was very high, and along the way they secured impressive victories, such as the one against Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City.

And in the third season, he made history. With one more point than the previous season, Andoni Iraola has qualified Bournemouth for European competition for the first time in its history. Sixth place has secured their spot in the upcoming Europa League. Now he heads to Liverpool to try to bring success to Anfield Road and once again make the ‘Reds’ a winning team that excites its fans.

Andoni Iraola’s Results at Bournemouth

• 2023/2024 season: 12th place with 48 points
• 2024/2025 season: 9th place with 56 points (club record)
• 2025/2026 season: 6th place with 57 points (club record and qualification for the Europa League)