Paul Merson casts one doubt on Andoni Iraola as Liverpool manager

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Iraola did an impressive job at Bournemouth (Picture: Getty Images) Merson has been thoroughly impressed by Iraola but still feels the pressure at a giant club like Liverpool will be something he has not experienced yet as a manager and will take some adjusting to. ‘I’m a big fan of him, massive fan, but he was manager of Bournemouth. Liverpool will be hoping he can do his magic as well at Liverpool.’ Arne Slot struggled in his second season at Anfield (Picture: Getty Images) While he rates his probable replacement, Merson admits he was surprised to see Slot sacked, given his brilliant first season in charge. ‘To be fair I was quite shocked, especially when [Xabi] Alonso went to Chelsea, I thought Slot was staying for at least another six months if he does well,’ said the Arsenal icon. ‘Now he’s out.

Mohamed Salah is also leaving Liverpool this summer (Picture: Shutterstock) ‘He’s got them into the Champions league again, I thought it was a little bit harsh. Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes worked with Andoni Iraola at Bournemouth (Picture: Getty Images) ‘You can see that he has made so many players at Bournemouth who look like ok players and he’s turned them into fantastic players.

He was a very good player and he’s become an elite manager. ‘I think it’s going to be really interesting for players. Absoutely, I’ve got no doubt, he’s an elite manager.’ Arrow MORE: Steven Gerrard reacts to Liverpool sacking Arne Slot and names ideal replacement Arrow MORE: Next Liverpool manager odds after Arne Slot sacking Arrow MORE: Liverpool sack Arne Slot with search for new head coach ‘underway’ In The Mixer’s World Cup special Previews of every single World Cup team in your inbox, featuring the players to look out for, games you shouldn’t miss and Metro’s big England predictions.