but don't compare Liverpool boss to Xabi Alonso'
Former Liverpool striker Fernando Morientes has praised the appointment of Andoni Iraola as the new Liverpool head coach. Morientes cautioned against comparing Iraola to Xabi Alonso, noting that both coaches have different career paths and management styles.
Why it matters
The discussion reflects the high-stakes nature of Premier League management and the intense public scrutiny surrounding coaching appointments at major clubs.
Former Liverpool striker Fernando Morientes says he is delighted to see Andoni Iraola given a chance as head coach at Anfield, claiming the new boss has been "turning heads for a long time". But the ex-Spain striker, who made 61 appearances for the Reds between 2005 and 2006, insists there is little point comparing Iraola with Xabi Alonso, the former Liverpool midfielder who is set to take charge of Chelsea this coming campaign. Iraola was appointed as Arne Slot's successor just days after the 2025 Premier League winner was relieved of his duties at Anfield following a disappointing fifth-place finish. After leading Bournemouth to sixth in the Premier League, the out-of-contract Iraola was appointed as the new head coach at Liverpool in early June and Morientes thinks it's the perfect time for the Basque coach to now show his credentials at a European giant.
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