Andoni Iraola is emerging as Liverpool's top managerial target after the club reassessed following missed opportunities. After the Fenway Sports Group held onto the increasingly unpopular Dutchman until season's end, they're determined not to let another potential successor slip away.
Iraola's Preferred Formation
Iraola is a manager defined by his principles, rather than the 4-2-3-1 formation he typically opted for at Bournemouth. His style is demanding and reminiscent of Jürgen Klopp's heavy metal soccer, albeit with distinct differences.
He converted the Cherries into one of the most aggressive teams out of possession in the Premier League, deploying a complex, varied pressing scheme that aims to trap teams in wide areas and create promising attacking moments in transition.
With the ball, Bournemouth were noticeably direct under Iraola. Strikers are asked to run the channels doggedly, with center backs often playing balls over the top of defenses. Ball-carrying is encouraged, and Iraola wants his players to play forward as quickly as possible.
Potential Liverpool Starting XI
GK: Alisson — There's been talk of Alisson potentially leaving the club, but Giorgi Mamardashvili's shaky end to the season may convince the hierarchy to retain the still-brilliant Brazilian goalkeeper.
CB: Jérémy Jacquet — Giovanni Leoni is progressing well in his recovery from a long-term knee injury and could be ready for preseason. Jacquet is also young and inexperienced, but he was signed for big money in January with the view of him quickly becoming a starter on Merseyside.
LB: Milos Kerkez — The arrival of Iraola should help Kerkez out, given that the Hungarian's move to the Reds came off the back of a season working with the Spaniard.
CM: Ryan Gravenberch — Slot must be credited for overseeing Gravenberch's evolution from outsider to staple. The Dutch midfielder in his current form looks perfect for Iraola, even if there's still work to be done out of possession.
CM: Alex Scott — There has to be a signing in midfield, with Adam Wharton a potential option. However, Scott has already thrived under the incoming manager and would create a ridiculous ball-carrying combination with Gravenberch in the midfield pivot.
ST: Alexander Isak — Isak will want to put a disappointing debut season behind him and move forward with Iraola. The Swede likes ball to feet, but he's an imperious strider when he runs the channels. Iraola will appreciate the variety of his runs.