Liverpool plot Iraola appointment with Slot set to be sacked in shock u-turn

News

Suraj Radia | Editor

Liverpool are reportedly considering a sensational change of manager that would see Arne Slot sacked and replaced by Andoni Iraola, according to a new report.

Slot has come under increasing pressure despite winning the Premier League 12 months ago, with Liverpool in danger of missing out on Champions League football for next season ahead of the final game of the season at home to Brentford on Sunday.

Liverpool ignored the temptation to bring Xabi Alonso to the club despite the Spaniard reportedly holding out for the job at Anfield and he has since been appointed as the new manager of rivals Chelsea.

But a change of coach could still come on Merseyside, with Footmercato claiming that Liverpool director Richard Hughes is leading a pursuit of Iraola after being ‘disappointed by the current momentum’ under Slot.

It is claimed that the ‘tide is turning very quickly’, with Hughes ‘discreetly activating’ a move for Iraola, whom he brought to Bournemouth during his time with the Cherries.

Liverpool are said to find Iraola’s profile ‘appealing’ and the 43-year-old is believed to be ‘open to a new, high-profile challenge’ ahead of the club’s review of Slot’s position after the season’s end.

Liverpool consider reversing Slot faith and replacing him with Iraola

Iraola has already announced he will leave Bournemouth after three seasons in charge, having led his side to European football for next season following an impressive campaign.

Crystal Palace have already entered talks to appoint Iraola as their new manager but Liverpool would undoubtedly represent a more appealing destination.

Liverpool had previously insisted they would continue with Slot but the Dutchman has come under fire after a run of eight losses in the last 15 games across all competitions.

Mohamed Salah, who will play his last game for Liverpool this weekend, also indirectly criticised Slot in a controversial post on social media last week which a number of teammates liked.

The tension appears to be pushing Liverpool towards reversing their decision over Slot and the speculation suggests that Iraola could replace him, with the bookmakers slashing odds over the switch on Thursday.