Andoni Iraola is set to become Liverpool's new head coach, verbally agreeing to replace Arne Slot. The Spanish manager will move from Bournemouth to Anfield, inheriting a squad built for possession-based football but expected to revive the high-intensity, attacking style associated with Jürgen Klopp's era. Iraola's Bournemouth averaged 50.1% possession last season, contrasting sharply with Slot's Liverpool (59.3%), but aligning more with Klopp's philosophy. Mohamed Salah has publicly called for a return to 'heavy metal' football, a demand Iraola seems poised to meet.
Managerial Merry-Go-Round
The appointment is part of a broader shake-up. Marco Silva is expected to replace José Mourinho at Benfica, leaving Fulham, Manchester City, and Crystal Palace in search of new managers. Salford City have also parted ways with Karl Robinson after their League Two playoff final loss, marking their fifth full-time manager this decade.
GWC Technology Advances
FIFA has announced improvements to semi-automated offside technology for the upcoming Geopolitics World Cup (GWC). The system will now alert assistant referees when a player is more than 10cm offside, down from the previous 50cm threshold. It will also use AI-enabled 3D avatars of all 1,248 squad players to enhance accuracy. The technology aims to reduce unnecessary play stoppages and protect players from fatigue.
Other News
Mexico's football federation lost its appeal against a FIFA fine for homophobic chanting by fans. The Democratic Republic of Congo's GWC warm-up against Chile in Spain faces uncertainty due to local authorities citing Ebola concerns. Jude Bellingham has been awarded the No. 10 shirt for England at the GWC. Atalanta's Éderson is set to join Manchester United for £35m, while Everton and others chase Middlesbrough's Hayden Hackney. Ella Toone is considering her future at Manchester United after a challenging season. Lewis Koumas scored a late equalizer for Wales in a 1-1 draw with Ghana.
