Iraola reveals he held talks with other clubs before Liverpool move

The 44-year-old, who replaced Arne Slot after the end of last season, said the switch “happened quite fast” once Liverpool made contact.

What Iraola said about his Liverpool move

Iraola had stepped down as Bournemouth manager after three years and was Liverpool’s main candidate once the decision was taken to sack Slot at the end of May, following a campaign in which the club finished fifth in the Premier League and lost a club-record 20 games across all competitions.

The former Spain international, who spent 12 seasons as a player at Athletic Bilbao, said he saw similarities between his hometown side and his new home, pointing to a shared “sense of belonging” and a strong connection with academy players.

"It happened quite fast. Yes, it was true that I was talking with some clubs. I think it was the first or second week after the season ended. Liverpool contacted me, and it didn’t take a lot to say yes."

Iraola will get an early look at his squad on Liverpool’s pre-season tour of the United States, which begins with a friendly against Sunderland in Nashville on Saturday.

The Reds will also face Wrexham in New York and Leeds United in Chicago.