On Saturday, reports surfaced indicating that Andoni Iraola, previously linked to the managerial vacancy at Milan, is now set to replace Arne Slot as Liverpool’s head coach.
Iraola Likely to Join Liverpool Over Milan
Liverpool has officially announced the departure of head coach Slot following two seasons in charge, during which he secured the Premier League title in 2024-25. While the Dutch manager also won the EFL Cup in his first season at Anfield, his second year culminated in a disappointing fifth-place finish.
Advertisement
“Arne leaves us with our heartfelt thanks, a Premier League title under his belt, and the assurance that he and his family will always be welcome back at Anfield,” stated a statement from the club’s ownership group.
According to recent updates from Fabrizio Romano, Liverpool has a strong favorite to succeed Slot: AFC Bournemouth’s Iraola. The Basque manager has garnered attention from several other clubs, including Crystal Palace and, of course, Milan, as reported in Italy.
BOURNEMOUTH, ENGLAND – MAY 19: Andoni Iraola, Manager of AFC Bournemouth, interacts with fans after the Premier League match between Bournemouth and Manchester City at Vitality Stadium on May 19, 2026. (Photo by Eddie Keogh/Getty Images)
Advertisement
Recent reports suggest that Milan is likely to lose out on Iraola, with his potential appointment to Liverpool complicating matters even more.
In the meantime, Milan plans to meet with departing Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner, with the discussion scheduled for early next week.
LEIPZIG, GERMANY – MAY 27: Oliver Glasner, Manager of Crystal Palace, acknowledges the fans while wearing his winners medal following the UEFA Conference League Final 2026 match between Crystal Palace FC and Rayo Vallecano de Madrid at Football Arena Leipzig on May 27, 2026. (Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images)
Advertisement
Additionally, Matthias Jaissle has been endorsed by Ralf Rangnick, who is reportedly preparing to take on a key role in the sporting department at Milan. However, the 38-year-old German coach currently manages Al-Ahli in the Saudi Pro League and would require a release fee of €6m for his departure.
USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino is also considered as an alternative for the Rossoneri.