Dean Saunders, former Liverpool striker, stated that the Reds should consider hiring a top-level manager rather than Andoni Iraola.
On 4 June 2026 GMT+7, after Arne Slot was dismissed as manager due to disappointing results this season and failure to win any titles,
Liverpool moved quickly to appoint Andoni Iraola, former Bournemouth manager, and is preparing to officially announce him as the new head coach soon, with an expected two-year contract.
However, Dean Saunders, former Liverpool forward, expressed his view that Iraola is not suitable to manage Liverpool, saying only a few people are fit to lead the team.
"There are only a few who can manage Liverpool. You have to think of someone who knows how to win, attack opponents, and break down their defense. If Slot is fired, who could take over? Could Klopp come back? Or Pep—if we got him, we would win the league. He has proven himself a winner, not just a Bournemouth manager like Andoni Iraola."
"If it were up to me, I would start with a manager who knows how to beat opponents."
Additionally, Saunders suggested several world-class coaches Liverpool should consider, including Luis Enrique, José Mourinho, and Carlo Ancelotti, whom he regards as proven winners.