What Andoni Iraola said about Richard Hughes as Liverpool 'in talks' over next manager
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Liverpool FC NewsFeaturesLiverpool FCAndoni Iraola is reportedly in line to become Liverpool's next manager after Arne Slot was fired, and the former Bournemouth boss has already worked with the Reds' sporting director Richard Hughes(Image: Getty Images)Richard Hughes could be about to be reunited with Andoni Iraola, with the former Bournemouth boss reportedly set to be appointed as Liverpool's next manager.The Reds are looking for a new boss after the shock decision was made to fire Arne Slot. “Andoni Iraola, set to become the next Liverpool manager as revealed earlier today!” he posted on X.Negotiations are said to be moving forward quickly, although Liverpool is claimed to have already made the decision to appoint the 43-year-old.The Reds’ sporting director Hughes will be leading the push for a new boss, and he already knows all about Iraola, having been the man who brought him to the Premier League in his previous role with Bournemouth.Richard Hughes appointed Andoni Iraola as Bournemouth boss in 2023(Image: Getty Images)At the time, it was a shock move from the Cherries after Gary O’Neil had earned plaudits for his efforts in steering the club away from relegation, but it certainly paid off over the years, with Bournemouth now set to play in European for the first time in its history.Iraola and Hughes clearly had a good working relationship, as made evident by the former’s comments when the latter departed for Liverpool in 2024.“I’ve always said it, he was maybe the main reason, or definitely a big, important part of the decision to come here,” Iraola said at the time (as per the Liverpool Echo).
Learn moreFrom $100LFC.comSee the dealLiverpool's home and away strips for the 2025/26 season are the first in their new partnership with adidas.Fans can order jerseys in the US at Fanatics.com or via the LFC Online Store in both the US and across the world.“I think he is very good at his job. There is an adaptation process where he is really helpful with the players and me as a coach.“I am really happy for him, because I suppose it is a very good chance for him.
I am sure he will also be doing a very good job there at Liverpool.”It now seems as though Iraola could be joining Hughes at Anfield, with a big summer lying in wait. There is a lot riding on Liverpool's next appointment, and the Spaniard will hope he can be the man to get the Reds challenging for trophies again next season.An original version of this article was first published on May 8, 2026.Choose Liverpool.com as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.Liverpool FCRichard HughesArne SlotAFC Bournemouth