Anfield is bracing for a seismic shift in philosophy as Andoni Iraola takes the reins, promising a thrilling new era for Liverpool. While the appointment signals a dramatic change for the Reds, for dynamic left-back Milos Kerkez, it's a highly anticipated reunion with the very manager who previously ignited his career. This is more than just a coaching change; it's a strategic pivot designed to inject relentless energy back into the squad, and Kerkez is uniquely placed to explain why Iraola is the perfect fit for Liverpool.
Key Points:
- Milos Kerkez hails Andoni Iraola as the "perfect fit" for Liverpool, citing his intense, front-foot tactical approach.
- The Hungarian full-back previously thrived under Iraola at Bournemouth, earning a PFA Team of the Year spot.
- Arne Slot's dismissal, despite winning a Premier League title and securing Champions League football, came as a "big surprise" to players.
- Iraola's pre-season is focused on grueling, high-intensity training, including "consequences" for losing sides, to forge a resilient squad.
The Familiar Face Leading Liverpool's Charge
The story of Milos Kerkez and Andoni Iraola is one of shared success. After joining Bournemouth from AZ in the summer of 2023, the young Hungarian defender truly blossomed under Iraola's guidance. Over two seasons, he made a remarkable 74 appearances, culminating in a well-deserved spot in the 2024–25 PFA Team of the Year.
This stellar form directly paved the way for his significant £40 million transfer to Anfield. Now, player and coach are reunited, offering Liverpool a unique advantage. Kerkez brings an insider's perspective on what the Reds can expect from their new boss.
Speaking exclusively to The Athletic, Kerkez couldn't hide his excitement. "I worked for him before and he helped me and improved me a lot in the two years that I spent with him," Kerkez revealed. "I was really happy he got the job: obviously for myself but also for the team."
He continued, detailing Iraola's tactical DNA: "Everyone knows what type of football he plays, so I think he is the perfect fit for us. He’s all about intensity. He’s not scared to play one-on-one all over the pitch, to press high and to be on the front foot always. I think the other guys also like how he works."
The Unforeseen Exit: Slot's Shocking Anfield Departure
While Iraola's arrival sparks optimism, the departure of Arne Slot sent shockwaves through the club. Despite leading Liverpool to a Premier League title in his debut 2024–25 season, Slot was controversially dismissed just one week after the campaign concluded.
The Reds finished fifth in the league that year, securing Champions League qualification but ultimately falling short of expectations. This inconsistency, even after a title win, proved to be the board's breaking point, leading to a ruthless decision that stunned many, including the players.
‘It was a big surprise,’ Kerkez admitted, recalling the moment he heard the news. ‘I was back in Serbia, I was sleeping when my brother woke me up and showed me the news (about Slot). Nobody knew. I couldn’t believe it. I was like: ‘Wow’.’
He added: ‘I have been in touch with him since and we have exchanged a few messages. Last season was tough for everyone. It wasn’t good for our standards. We need to improve this year.’
Intensity Personified: Unpacking Iraola's Tactical Blueprint
Adapting to Iraola's demanding tactical system has been the primary focus of Liverpool's pre-season tour in the United States. The Spanish manager is famed for his relentless pressing style, which requires players to be in peak physical condition. Training sessions in the American heat have been, as expected, nothing short of grueling.
This high-octane approach presents a pivotal opportunity for Kerkez, who experienced a mixed debut season at Anfield. He still made a significant impact, clocking 48 appearances across all competitions, including 38 starts, and contributing two goals and two assists.
Kerkez provided further insight into Iraola's managerial style: 'He’s very professional. He likes to talk sometimes but not a lot. I think maybe he doesn’t want to get too close to some players and wants to show that everyone is the same in the team.'
He continued: 'He shows a lot of emotion on the sidelines but in the locker room and in training, he’s pretty calm.'
Forging Champions: Iraola's Demands & Rewards
The competitive fire Iraola instills is evident in his unique training methods. During practice matches, losing teams face 'consequences' – often in the form of extra running. This culture of accountability is meticulously designed to cultivate a resilient, mentally tough squad capable of sustaining his high-octane football.
This very formula propelled Bournemouth to a historic sixth-place finish last season, remarkably securing UEFA Europa League qualification for the first time in their history. It's a testament to the effectiveness of Iraola's approach.
‘If you see the footage of how we all are after training, all lying down, then you can see what he is preparing us for,’ Kerkez explained. ‘You definitely need legs and good condition for what he wants us to do, but we will be alright.’
He elaborated on the ‘consequences’: ‘Sometimes we play some games with three or four teams and he calls it ‘consequences’. The losing team has to run. How much you have to run depends on what he decides in that moment, but there is always running for the team that loses. I like to run a lot. It’s why I stay after training.’
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