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Liverpool to hold end of season meeting with Andoni Iraola a candidate to replace Arne Slot

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Andoni Iraola is almost certainly a candidate to be Liverpool’s next manager, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

With Arne Slot struggling for support amongst the fanbase, rumours have emerged that Iraola is top of Liverpool’s list of potential replacements.

Reacting to those suggestions on his YouTube channel during Thursday evening, Romano confirmed that an end of season review is still planned at Anfield, and if a change of manager is decided upon, Iraola could be in the mix to take over.

Is Andoni Iraola the right man to replace Arne Slot this summer? 🤔

Andoni Iraola of Bournemouth after his side's 2-1 win during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Bournemouth
Credit: Robin Jones/AFC Bournemouth/Getty Images

Liverpool yet to fully decide on Slot’s future

Although the line coming from Liverpool for a while now has been that they are continuing to put faith in Slot, Romano has long reported that a decision will only be made at the end of the season.

As rumours about Iraola’s potential bid to take over gather pace, the transfer expert has reiterated the Reds’ stance, while confirming that the outgoing Bournemouth boss is likely to be in their thinking if a change is made.

“I can absolutely confirm that there will be an end of season review at Liverpool,” Romano said. “I can confirm that this will include everyone at the club.

“Today there are many rumours about Arne Slot. What I understand is that this week nothing is happening, after this weekend when Liverpool will have a verdict on Champions League football, they will have an end of season review about absolutely everything. There are several things to clarify.”

READ MORE: How Andoni Iraola feels about taking over from Arne Slot at Liverpool midway through 2026/27

Bournemouth v Manchester City - Premier League
Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images

“In case Liverpool decide to change their mind and decide to part ways with the manager after the end of season review, eventually Andoni Iraola could be a candidate,” Romano added.

“He used to work with Richard Hughes at Bournemouth, he is one of the most appreciated managers in England right now. For sure, Iraola would be a candidate. He’s going to leave the club, we know that.

“He has an offer from Crystal Palace but he still hasn’t signed because he wants to understand which one could be the best option possible for him. He also had offers from other countries, but at the moment he is giving priority to Premier League football, so let’s see what happens there.”

Vacancies at Chelsea and Manchester United have already passed Iraola by, while Manchester City look likely to appoint Enzo Maresca. Tottenham have decided on Roberto De Zerbi, meaning if Iraola wants to stay in the Premier League, while taking a step up, Liverpool is the only choice. Fascinating days ahead.