Andoni Iraola's first words as Liverpool manager speak volumes after snubbing two clubs

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Andoni Iraola has spoken for the first time after signing a two-year contract to succeed Arne Slot and become the new Liverpool manager ahead of the 2026/27 seasonAndoni Iraola has hinted at why he declined interest from Crystal Palace and Bayer Leverkusen to become the new Liverpool manager. Iraola was in high demand after leaving Bournemouth and has now been confirmed as Arne Slot's successor at Anfield.The Spaniard has signed a two-year contract with the Reds just five days after Slot was sacked by the club.

He has earned the job through three impressive years at Bournemouth, who he led to a sixth-place finish and a place in the Europa League.Liverpool finished fifth in the Premier League and were disappointing in the cup competitions, spelling the end of Slot's two-season stint in charge. He has a strong reputation for developing young players and will be expected to bring back a more attractive playing style.FOLLOW OUR LIVERPOOL FB PAGE!

“Because obviously you know about Liverpool, you know that it’s a big club, a massive club, one of the biggest in the world.“But feeling inside and understanding a little bit more of this club, I always thought it’s a special club. It was Liverpool's sporting director, along with Fenway Sports Group chief Michael Edwards, who took the decision to sack Slot and go for Iraola.Join our LFC WhatsApp community and get all the latest LFC news, views, transfer gossip and more, as it happens We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners.