Romano: Iraola A Candidate If Slot Gone After Season Review

WIMBORNE MINSTER, ENGLAND - MAY 21: Head Coach Andoni Iraola of Bournemouth during a training session at Canford Performance Centre on May 21, 2026 in Wimborne Minster, England. (Photo by Robin Jones - AFC Bournemouth/AFC Bournemouth via Getty Images) | AFC Bournemouth via Getty Images

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Fabrizio Romano has put forth current Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola as a prime candidate to take over should Arne Slot’s reign come to an end after the end of season review:

“I think this is absolutely normal because, in case Liverpool decided to change their mind compared to what they did so far because for example, as I always say, they never approached Xabi Alonso or other managers but if end of the season review is going to be okay we decide to part ways with the manager eventually Andoni Iraola could be a candidate.”

“He used to work with Richard Hughes at Bournemouth. He’s one of the most appreciated managers in England right now, doing an incredible job at Bournemouth. So for sure he would be a candidate. He’s going to leave the club. We know that he has an offer from Crystal Palace.”

“But still nothing signed because he wants to understand which one could be the best option possible for him. He also had a proposal from another country, not England, but at the moment he is giving priority to English football and the Premier League. So let’s see what happens there.”

Sébastian Denis, the editor-in-chief of French outlet Foot Mercato, is also reporting the same.

🚨EXCL #LFC 🔴

🎯Liverpool is considering replacing Arne Slot with Andoni Iraola

❗️With Xabi Alonso at Chelsea, LFC director Richard Hughes wants to reunite with the Spaniard after his incredible 6th-place finish with Bournemouth.

⚠️ But watch out: Crystal Palace is already in… pic.twitter.com/G6Z5VHhq93

— Sébastien Denis (@sebnonda) May 21, 2026

Iraola is out of contract at the conclusion of the season, and Bournemouth have already appointed his successor in Marco Rose. Crystal Palace were reportedly trying to secure his services, but should Liverpool FC come calling, it would be a clear step up in his career trajectory, as compared to Palace, which seemed like a lateral move like to many at the time those rumours emerged.

Other than his prior working relationship with Richard Hughes, Iraola is available, compared to some other names that have been thrown into the hat for the LFC job on the interwebs, like Sebastian Hoeneß of Stuttgart, or Julian Nagelsmann with the German national team.

For what it’s worth, James “Bad News” Pearce maintains that Arne Slot will still be in charge.

Liverpool’s position on Arne Slot remains unchanged – despite a day of social media rumours.

— James Pearce (@JamesPearceLFC) May 21, 2026

We’ll find out real soon. I’m tired, Robbie.

Source: liverpooloffside.sbnation.com