Andoni Iraola has explained why he only signs two-year contracts ahead of Liverpool move

Some football managers like to build despite the inherently short-term job security. It can work well but it demands a high degree of trust and patience.

Andoni Iraola sees it differently. The Basque boss, who is reportedly close to being appointed by Liverpool, is one of the gaffers who wants to bring life to his clear ideas more quickly.

It's not an easy task but it keeps managers of Iraola's ilk away from the need to ask for more time in an impatient sport.

Iraola's impending appointment has been widely reported. Formal talks have taken place and a verbal agreement was reached on Tuesday.

Assistants Tommy Elphick and Shaun Cooper expected to join Iraola at Anfield along with fitness coach Pablo de la Torre and analyst Tom Webber.

Reports indicate that the 43-year-old has agreed a two-year contract with Liverpool, rather shorter than the typical term for a new manager at the top level.

Iraola has already explained his preference. I an interview with BBC Radio Solent in 2025, he said: “I think just signing a contract, just to have the assurance that if they sign you, you will receive the money, I don't feel – I wouldn't feel – really pleased with this. I think you have to earn the right every season.

“Sometimes, even if you don't get the best results, maybe the club is very happy with your work and they want to continue, and it happens the opposite way as well. So I think, in a manager's case, it doesn't matter if you have another three years. If one of the parties is not happy, normally it breaks from one side or the other.

“So every year has to be like a renewal of confidence from both sides and, normally, it's like this.”

Iraola earned his shot by revolutionising Bournemouth

Liverpool's interest in Iraola pre-dates their two seasons under Arne Slot and the Spaniard's spell in charge of AFC Bournemouth.

The Cherries recorded back-to-back highest league finishes under Iraola. The south coast club have played nine seasons in England's top division and Iraola guided them to an equal-best ninth place in the Premier League in 2024-25.

After finishing sixth in 2025-26, three points behind the Reds, Bournemouth will play in Europe for the first time next season.

Former Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig boss Marco Rose will take them into the Europa League while Iraola, who would have earned a Champions League spot had other results gone Bournemouth's way on the final day of the season, will lead Liverpool into European club football's premier competition instead.