Why Iraola Fits Liverpool Better Than Alonso
The case here is simple: Iraola looks a closer match for what Liverpool supporters want, with hard-running, attacking football, strong player development and a quieter, team-first approach than Alonso.
Iraola is the one for Liverpool’s next manager. I keep coming back to it because, for me, he looks a better fit than Alonso.
Mentality and style
Iraola played for Bilbao, and that matters in terms of mentality. He will get the Liverpool way: hard work, fight, going after teams regardless of status, and doing it without any airs and graces. If you are not familiar with Bilbao, trust me, he has that in absolute spades.
On the pitch, it is attacking, pressing football, and his teams match his personality. It is attractive to watch and fits what we want to see. He also plays with wingers, which feels like where we need to go.
Developing players and getting more from the squad
He has a proven track record of developing players. Bournemouth producing players for Liverpool, PSG, Real Madrid and Man City says it all during his time there.
What really excites me is that his teams are always better than the sum of their parts. I would love to see what he could do at Liverpool, because he seems to raise levels across a group rather than needing everything perfect around him.
Loyalty, media noise and leadership
Liverpool fans value loyalty, and he comes across that way. He must have had offers, but he has seen out his contract with Bournemouth. I also never see him talk about offers: he shuts everything down and keeps it team first.
He does not come with the same fanfare, and I see that as a positive. Less media nonsense, more straight down to business. He speaks perfect English and speaks really well. Nothing as charismatic as Klopp, but I would say a fair bit more charisma than Alonso.
He also seems to immerse himself in the club he manages. From interviews I have heard about Bournemouth, he genuinely loves that club and city. It feels like more than just a job with him, and I think he would feel the same at Liverpool because the values line up.
Premier League know-how and physical edge
There is the practical side too. He has years of recent Premier League experience, he knows what every team is about, and he will know exactly what he wants to do. He will not be turning up wondering what it is all about.
For me, there is no better choice for this team outside of Enrique or Klopp. I am confident it would be a match made in heaven, and I am desperate for him to become the top candidate over Alonso.
To be clear, Alonso has an excellent record, including at Real Madrid, and he is an ex-player. I will support him of course. I just fancy Iraola a lot more, and I think whoever gets him as their manager will be going places.
One last thing: his teams are the fittest around. I do not want to see our players tiring mid-game every game.
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