Skip to content
BOURNEMOUTH, ENGLAND – MAY 19: Andoni Iraola, Manager of AFC Bournemouth, acknowledges the fans following the Premier League match between Bournemouth and Manchester City at Vitality Stadium on May 19, 2026 in Bournemouth, England. (Photo by Eddie Keogh/Getty Images)
Reports on Saturday claim that Andoni Iraola, who had been linked with the vacant managerial position at Milan, is now poised to take over from Arne Slot as head coach of Liverpool instead.
Iraola posed to join Liverpool instead of Milan
Liverpool have confirmed that they have parted company with head coach Slot with immediate effect following two seasons in charge and a Premier League title in 2024-25. The Dutchman also won the EFL Cup during his first season at Anfield, but was only able to muster up a fifth-place finish during his second year in charge.
“Arne leaves with our gratitude, with a Premier League title to his name, and with the knowledge that he and his family will always be welcomed back at Anfield,” read a statement from Liverpool’s ownership group.
According to the latest updates from Fabrizio Romano, Liverpool already have a clear favourite in line to take over from Slot, and that is AFC Bournemouth’s Iraola. The Basque tactician has plenty of interest, including from Crystal Palace and from Milan as well according to reports in Italy.
Reports over the last few days have indicated that Milan are set to miss out on Iraola, and his appointment now seems even more complicated given the reported interest from Liverpool.
Instead, Milan reportedly have a meeting set up with departing Crystal Palace head coach Oliver Glasner, which is set to take place early next week.
Matthias Jaissle has also been recommended by Ralf Rangnick, who seems poised to take over the Rossoneri sporting department, but the 38-year-old German coach is currently employed by Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli, who want compensation to the tune of €6m if they are to release their head coach.
USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino is among the alternative options for the Rossoneri.
ByPeter Young
Peter Young is a Senior Reporter with Football Italia.
