Jurgen Klopp already made his feelings clear on Andoni Iraola as Liverpool needs new manager
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Liverpool is edging closer to appointing its next manager as Jurgen Klopp previously shared his views on Andoni Iraola, now a leading candidate to replace Arne SlotJurgen Klopp has previously shared his thoughts on Andoni Iraola(Image: 2024 Robin Jones - AFC Bournemouth)As Liverpool edges closer to appointing Arne Slot’s successor, previous comments from Jurgen Klopp regarding Andoni Iraola have resurfaced.Liverpool is now in the market for a new head coach following the shock decision to dismiss Slot. The Dutchman had retained the club's backing until the end of the season, departing after guiding Liverpool to the Premier League title in his debut campaign.
However, his final year in charge prompted significant frustration among supporters, with performances drawing increasing criticism inside Anfield.Attention has now turned to his successor, with reports suggesting Liverpool may already have identified the preferred candidate. Iraola is widely reported to be in line to take over at Anfield this summer, with the departing Bournemouth boss emerging as the leading contender to step into the role.If Iraola were to be appointed, it could be good news for Alexander Isak in particular.Isak has endured a difficult 2025/26 campaign, missing pre-season through injury and suffering a series of fitness setbacks that have disrupted his rhythm and consistency.Even when available, the striker has often been deployed in wider areas under Slot, with limited tactical emphasis placed on tailoring the system to his strengths.Iraola is the leading candidate to replace Arne Slot(Image: Getty Images)However, previous comments from Klopp have resurfaced, in which he outlined his admiration for Andoni Iraola’s ability to maximize center-forward output.Iraola arrived at Bournemouth in 2023 while Klopp was still in charge at Anfield, and the former Liverpool boss later praised his early work in the Premier League.Klopp highlighted how effectively Iraola utilized then-Bournemouth striker Dominic Solanke, noting how the forward was consistently supported by runners and structures across the pitch, helping to elevate his overall impact in the team.Klopp said: “I didn’t know a lot about him [Iraola].
The way they defend, really good, really compact.”At present, when fit, Isak has often found himself short of support from Liverpool’s wide players and central creators, leaving him isolated in advanced areas and regularly frustrated as promising runs go unpicked.However, that dynamic is expected to change significantly should Iraola take charge at Anfield. Under Iraola, center-forwards are typically integrated into a more cohesive attacking structure, a shift that could prove crucial for Liverpool’s record signing next season.