Liverpool next manager 'confirmed' as Fabrizio Romano drops bombshell after Arne Slot sacking

Fabrizio Romano claims Liverpool have already made a decision on who will replace Arne Slot at Anfield.

Romano broke the news that Liverpool would part ways with Slot on Saturday after weeks of speculation over his future.

Liverpool journalists had maintained during the closing stages of the season that Slot retained the full faith of owners Fenway Sports Group, citing various mitigating factors as the reason for their underperformance following a record-breaking transfer window last summer.

Nevertheless, the decision was made to part ways with the title-winning manager with former Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola emerging as an early favourite to take over.

Now, Romano claims Liverpool have already decided the Spaniard will be the man to take charge next season with his appointment as Slot’s successor set to be confirmed in the coming days.

Romano wrote on X: “The negotiations will move forward quickly to get it done with formal steps but Liverpool decision is made.

“Iraola will be the next manager.”

Stuttgart manager Sebastian Hoeness and Lens boss Pierre Sage were named by The Athletic as potential contenders for the role but it seems Iraola is the man who will be in the Anfield dugout next season.

Iraola guided Bournemouth to the Europa League in his final season at the club, opting to depart in search of a new challenge.

He had been heavily linked with the now-vacant Crystal Palace job as well as Bayer Leverkusen.

Liverpool statement on Arne Slot sacking

Liverpool’s owners FSG released a statement after claiming the decision to sack Slot was not taken lightly.

They thanked the Dutchman for guiding Liverpool to their 20th league title and for the way he conducted himself following the tragic passing of Diogo Jota last summer.

Their statement read in full: “That this was a difficult decision for us to make as a club goes without saying. The contribution Arne has made to Liverpool FC in the time that he has been with us has been significant, meaningful and – most importantly of all to supporters and ourselves – successful.

“As such, our appreciation for everything he has achieved could not be greater, particularly as it was underpinned by a work ethic, a diligence and a level of expertise which further underlined our view that he is a leader in his field.

“From the moment that we first encountered Arne, it was immediately clear that he is an individual who does not merely accept responsibility, he embraces it. This was evident when he agreed to take over as head coach, when he guided us to the Premier League title and throughout the season just ended when he faced considerable challenges and burdens.

“At the same time, we have collectively come to the conclusion that change is necessary in order for the club to keep moving forward. Again, it must be stressed that this is not a decision which has been reached lightly, anything but.

“We would like to take this opportunity to place on record our appreciation for Arne, who will always hold a special place in the history of this football club as the coach who delivered Liverpool’s 20th league title.

“That accomplishment – made all the more remarkable as it arrived in his very first season in charge – was built on outstanding coaching and leadership every single day.

“He also helped guide the club through one of the most difficult periods imaginable following the loss of Diogo. The compassion and humanity he showed throughout that time said a great deal about him as a person.

“As such, we can only wish Arne well in the next stage of his coaching career, with our expectation being that he will continue to be successful. We do so in the knowledge that his Liverpool legacy is intact and will become yet more meaningful in the years and decades to come.

“Nevertheless, the conclusion we have come to is built on a belief that the team’s trajectory is best addressed through a change of direction. That does not diminish the work Arne has done here, or the respect we have for him. Nor is it a reflection of his talents. Rather, it is indicative of the need for a different approach.

“Arne leaves with our gratitude, with a Premier League title to his name, and with the knowledge that he and his family will always be welcomed back at Anfield.”