Andoni Iraola, the new manager of Liverpool Football Club, has stated his primary goal is to create a team that fans can once again feel proud of. Speaking at his first press conference since succeeding Arne Slot, Iraola emphasized the importance of reconnecting with the Anfield faithful.
Supporters experienced a disjointed season as the team's Premier League title defense faltered, ultimately leading to Slot's departure. Iraola, who joined from Bournemouth on a two-year contract, expressed his desire to foster a strong bond between the club and its supporters.
"I would like to give them a team that they can feel proud of," Iraola said. "I think football and especially Liverpool is about connecting. Connecting with the people, connecting with our supporters."
Recalling his experiences as an opposing manager at Anfield, Iraola noted the palpable atmosphere. "You can feel the stadium," he said. "I would love to have this every time we play."
To achieve this connection, Iraola stressed that the team's performance on the pitch is paramount. He described the ideal team as one that "works hard, intensely, aggressively, vertically so everyone can be identified and everyone can feel comfortable supporting this team."