Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola promises Anfield fans an aggressive team
New Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has promised to give supporters a team they can be proud of during his first official media conference at Anfield.
The 44-year-old signed a two-year contract with the Merseyside club last month following three highly successful seasons at Bournemouth.
He arrives tasked with revitalising a squad that finished fifth in the Premier League last season.
Previous boss Arne Slot was dismissed on 30 May after supporters grew increasingly frustrated with a perceived lack of dynamism on the pitch.
Connecting with the Anfield crowd
The Spanish tactician acknowledged that his players must take the initiative to inspire vociferous backing from the stands.
“I think football and especially Liverpool is about connecting – connecting with the people, connecting with our supporters.”
Iraola previously experienced the famous Anfield atmosphere as an opposition manager when Federico Chiesa scored a winner against his Bournemouth side.
“You can feel the stadium and I would love to have this every time we play – but that has to come from us, from inside the pitch.”
He emphasised the need for an intense, aggressive, and vertical style of play to ensure fans feel comfortable supporting the side.
Embracing the pressure of a massive club
Before his stint on the south coast, the former Rayo Vallecano and Mirandes boss built his reputation across European football.
Despite the significant step up in expectations, he insists he is entirely prepared for the intense scrutiny that accompanies one of global sport’s biggest jobs.
“I’m ready for it. I understand this is a massive club.”
The Basque coach also expressed a desire to integrate into the local culture rather than living isolated in a footballing bubble.
“It’s part of the magic of being the Liverpool manager and I would like not to change too much.”
Short-term contract reflects philosophy
His decision to sign a two-year deal represents a remarkably brief commitment by modern elite standards.
However, this length is entirely consistent with his career history, having operated on similar terms whilst guiding the Cherries to their first European qualification.
“I don’t want to be in a place because I have a contract. I signed for two years but it’s basically year to year when you are a coach.”
He added that managers at elite institutions must continuously earn the right to retain their positions regardless of contractual length.
Looking ahead to the upcoming campaign, the new head coach admitted that squad reinforcements will be necessary.
While he has already held positive talks with the majority of the current dressing room, he confirmed the club knows more players are needed.