Who is Andoni Iraola? Liverpool switched to Klopp-style football as the Spaniard replaced Arne Sloto

Andoni Iraola (Pic credit: LFC) Liverpool have handed the reins to Andoni Iraola, appointing the highly-rated Spaniard as their new head coach following the departure of Arne Sloto and signaling a return to the aggressive, assertive style that brought the club huge success under Jurgen Klopp.The 43-year-old arrives at Anfield after turning Bournemouth into one of the Premier League’s surprise packages. Under his leadership, the south coast club finished sixth last season, went unbeaten in their last 18 league games and qualified for European competition for the first time in their history.“Liverpool is Liverpool,” Iraola said after his appointment. “The atmosphere, the fans, the players, the chance to fight for titles – I don’t think it could be more attractive.”From Athletic Bilbao stalwart to Premier League rising starBorn in the Spanish Basque Country, Iraola enjoyed an illustrious playing career with Athletic Bilbao, making over 500 appearances over 12 seasons. The former right-back also represented Spain seven times before ending his career with MLS side New York City FC.His coaching journey began in Cyprus with AEK Larnaca, where he won the Cyprus Super Cup. He then impressed with Mirandes before leading Rayo Vallecano back into La Liga and establishing them as a competitive top team.His reputation soared after he took charge of Bournemouth in 2023. In three seasons he turned the Cherries into European qualifiers and one of England’s most exciting teams.A return to ‘heavy metal’ football?Liverpool’s decision comes after a disappointing second season under Slot, who was sacked last weekend despite winning the Premier League title in his debut campaign. The Reds finished fifth last season and concerns about the team’s style of play were becoming increasingly evident.

Which challenge do you think will be the toughest for Iraola at Liverpool?

Departing star Mohamed Salah has publicly urged Liverpool to “return to the heavy metal attacking team that opponents fear”, a message that appears to have resonated with the club’s hierarchy.Iraola’s intense play faithfully mirrors Klopp’s philosophy, even if his understated personality contrasts sharply with the German’s charismatic presence.The challenge that awaits him is considerable. Iraola has never managed the Champions League or managed a club the size of Liverpool. But after establishing himself as one of the brightest coaching prospects in Europe, the Spaniard now faces the biggest test of his career as he attempts to return Liverpool to the summit of English and European football.