Photo via BBC Sport

How Iraola is moving Liverpool on from the Slot era

Andoni Iraola returns to his former club Bournemouth this weekend with an undefeated Liverpool side, even though the team currently trails its points tally from the identical period a year ago by six points. The 44-year-old manager succeeded Arne Slot after previously leading the Cherries for three seasons, and he will step into a visiting locker room recently upgraded to satisfy Europa League standards.

Off the pitch, the avid cyclist has made his home in Formby, following the footsteps of former Anfield managers Jurgen Klopp and Brendan Rodgers, while establishing a grounded, low-profile routine across Merseyside.

Behind the scenes at Kirkby's AXA Training Centre, Iraola frequently works out of a communal room alongside staff members Tommy Elphick, Shaun Cooper, and longtime collaborator Pablo de la Torre. Striker Lewis Koumas highlighted the demanding nature of their schedule, noting the relentless intensity and absence of light workout days under the new regime.

With Liverpool slated for at least 49 fixtures this term and potentially exceeding 60 depending on tournament progress, the coaching staff is actively coordinating with club medical and conditioning personnel to navigate the heavy workload.