Seven Liverpool Players Face Uncertain Futures as New Coach Andoni Iraola Nears Appointment

Liverpool is close to finalizing the appointment of Andoni Iraola as their new head coach, following the dismissal of Arne Slot. The Spaniard, previously managing Bournemouth, is expected to take charge by the end of the week, pending the conclusion of negotiations with sporting director Richard Hughes.

Iraola, 43, left Bournemouth after the recent season ended, which means compensation issues are unlikely to delay his move. Reports indicate he has been offered a two-year contract to lead Liverpool's squad.

It is anticipated that Iraola will bring along his former Bournemouth assistants, Tommy Elphick and Shaun Cooper, to form part of his coaching team. However, the full composition of the new coaching staff remains undecided. There is speculation about a possible return of former Liverpool midfielder Thiago Alcantara, who recently left Barcelona's coaching setup under Hansi Flick.

Potential Changes to Liverpool’s Squad

Attention is turning to Liverpool’s player roster, where the futures of several individuals have been questioned, according to reports from the Liverpool Echo. Among those under scrutiny is goalkeeper Alisson Becker. Despite Liverpool activating an option earlier this year to extend his contract through next season, Juventus has shown strong interest in the 33-year-old Brazilian.

While Arne Slot suggested the club might need to make a decision regarding Alisson this summer, Liverpool reportedly prefers to retain him. Sources from Brazil indicate Alisson has declined Juventus’ advances and intends to stay at Anfield for at least one more season.

This situation could impact Giorgi Mamardashvili, the Georgian international who appeared 20 times this season. His agents have reportedly been seeking loan opportunities for him at Italian clubs.

Midfield and Defensive Players Under Review

Among Iraola’s early priorities will be deciding the future of two midfielders. Curtis Jones, who is entering the final year of his contract, has attracted concrete interest from Inter Milan, which failed to secure a loan deal for him in January. Turkish club Galatasaray is also monitoring Jones. Liverpool aims to secure over £30 million for the 25-year-old academy graduate, recognizing this may be the last chance to generate transfer income from him.

Harvey Elliott has returned to Liverpool after a disappointing loan spell at Aston Villa, where he was deliberately not given enough playing time to trigger a £35 million purchase clause.

With the departures of Mohamed Salah, Andy Robertson, and Ibrahima Konate as free agents, Liverpool has lost significant experience, particularly in defense. Joe Gomez, also out of contract next summer, could become a key figure as the longest-serving player. Meanwhile, two senior centre-backs, 19-year-old Giovanni Leoni and the new £60 million signing Jeremy Jacquet, have yet to play in the Premier League.

Contract Situations and Potential Departures

A tactical shift under Iraola might also rejuvenate Alexis Mac Allister, who had an underwhelming season in midfield. Mac Allister has two years remaining on his contract but, unlike Ryan Gravenberch and Dominik Szoboszlai, has not been offered a new deal recently.

Wataru Endo and Federico Chiesa have been linked with possible exits this summer, reportedly due to limited playing opportunities during Slot’s tenure.