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Spanish coach Andoni Iraola is set to take charge at Anfield, succeeding Arne Slot at Liverpool.

Former Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy has expressed that supporters should feel “excited” about Iraola’s arrival.

Slot, the Dutch tactician, managed Liverpool for two years, capturing the Premier League title in his debut season and guiding the team to a fifth-place finish along with Champions League qualification in his second campaign.

Despite that success, the Liverpool board was left dissatisfied after investing a record £446 million in transfers following their league triumph.

Now, the Merseyside club has turned to Bournemouth’s manager Iraola to reignite their momentum. The former Athletic Bilbao player will leave the South Coast side when his contract ends.

Murphy believes Iraola’s dynamic footballing style will bring renewed excitement to Anfield, especially after fans and senior players like Mohamed Salah reportedly grew frustrated with Slot’s possession-heavy tactics.

“I’m genuinely excited because, after watching Bournemouth play, there’s no reason to think he won’t implement the same approach – brave, attack-minded, and pressing high up the pitch with energy,” Murphy said.

“When supporters lose faith in a manager and his playing style, and the relationship begins to sour, it only delays the inevitable. I think Liverpool are now in a much stronger position, and that’s not solely due to Slot.”

“Appointing Iraola is a great move because it gives fans a sense of optimism ahead of the new season. You don’t want the squad starting a campaign burdened with anxiety, and this change gives them a fresh start.”

Iraola has been a manager in demand, notably being on Chelsea’s shortlist to replace Liam Rosenior at Stamford Bridge, according to Standard Sport.

However, former Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso ultimately secured the Chelsea job, leaving Iraola considering other options including Crystal Palace, Bayer Leverkusen, and AC Milan.

Ex-Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher voiced concerns about Iraola’s suitability for such a big role, and Murphy also noted a few reservations.

“He’s never managed a club of Liverpool’s magnitude before, and he’ll likely be surprised at how much it changes his life. Managing Liverpool means every decision, every move is under scrutiny both locally and globally,” Murphy explained.

“My only other concern is whether he can maintain that high-intensity football every few days. That kind of energy demands exceptional fitness levels – something we saw in Jürgen Klopp’s teams with their flying full-backs, relentless midfield, and tireless forwards.”

“Right now, it’s hard to see how he can replicate that with the current squad. The summer transfer window is going to be crucial for Liverpool. They need more energy, dynamism, and players who excel off the ball.”