Exclusive: Why Andoni Iraola is the ‘perfect fit’ for Liverpool

Exclusive: Why Andoni Iraola is the ‘perfect fit’ for Liverpool Exclusive: Former Liverpool Midfielder Speaks on Andoni Iraola’s Arrival In two months time, Andoni Iraola’s career at Liverpool will begin. The Reds will travel to Newcastle United for their Premier League opener in what promises to be an absolute thriller. But expectations are high for the Spaniard. He replaces Arne Slot, who won the Premier League title in his debut season. Of course, it will be hard to replicate that but the bar is still high for Iraola. Perhaps some eyebrows were raised by the appointment, with Iraola making the huge step up from AFC Bournemouth. But his CV is incredibly impressive, topped by his most recent accomplishment of guiding Bournemouth to European football for the first time in the club’s history. Former Liverpool midfielder Don Hutchison, speaking exclusively to Anfield Index, and shared his thoughts on Iraola’s arrival… Iraola is the ‘Perfect’ Option for Liverpool Hutchison reacted to the sacking of Arne Slot and was strong in his admiration for Iraola. He said: “The Liverpool board have made the right decision – Andoni Iraola seems the perfect fit .” Photo: IMAGO The former midfielder also spoke on the idea that Liverpool missed out on Xabi Alonso, who has since become Chelsea manager. “They may have gone the long way around in arriving at the correct decision, but I don’t see Xabi Alonso as a good fit,” said Hutchison, “He likes to play a back three, which suits Chelsea, but I’ve never seen Liverpool play a back three.” “Alonso is a legendary player at Anfield and the fans love him, but tactically Iraola is a better fit because he will set his team up closer to Jurgen Klopp’s style,” continued Hutchison. “Liverpool were so dull to watch last season, whereas Bournemouth were absolutely outstanding. They’ll be entertaining under Iraola and that is the most important thing, especially after Slot’s time here,” said Hutchison. Liverpool fans will be hoping for that perfect combination of style and results. For that, there’s no doubt that Andoni Iraola is the man for the job. But for now, attention turns to strengthing the Liverpool squad. With Jeremy Jacquet and Victor Munoz already wrapped up, you can expect much more business at Anfield this summer.