Three Liverpool Players Who Could Stay at Anfield After Andoni Iraola’s Appointment Despite a Tight Budget
Liverpool appear to be on the verge of appointing former Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola as their new head coach following the departure of Arne Slot. Multiple reports on Tuesday indicated that talks have advanced significantly, with an agreement in principle believed to have been reached between the club and the Spaniard.
While much of the discussion surrounding Iraola’s arrival has focused on potential new signings, Liverpool may not have the financial freedom to embark on a major squad overhaul. The club is expected to balance spending carefully, particularly after recent transfer investments and uncertainty surrounding several senior players. As a result, Iraola could be forced to work with much of the current squad rather than demand wholesale changes.
That scenario could prove beneficial for several Liverpool players whose futures appeared uncertain under the previous regime. Here are three stars who may now have a renewed chance of remaining at Anfield.
Curtis Jones
Perhaps no player stands to benefit more from Iraola’s arrival than academy graduate Curtis Jones.
The midfielder endured an inconsistent campaign under Slot, often finding himself in and out of the starting lineup. Despite flashes of quality, questions remained over whether he could establish himself as a guaranteed starter in Liverpool’s midfield.
However, Iraola’s energetic and aggressive pressing style could suit Jones perfectly. The 25-year-old possesses the work rate, tactical intelligence and versatility required to operate in multiple midfield roles. Rather than spending heavily on another central midfielder, Liverpool may decide that Jones can become an important component of the new coach’s system.
With a limited transfer budget, retaining and developing homegrown talent could be one of Iraola’s priorities, making Jones a likely survivor of any squad reshaping.
Harvey Elliott
Another player who could see his Liverpool future transformed is Harvey Elliott.
There were periods during the past season when Elliott struggled for consistent minutes, leading to speculation about a possible move elsewhere. Yet Iraola’s tactical philosophy may create new opportunities for the creative midfielder.
At Bournemouth, Iraola frequently relied on technically gifted players capable of operating between the lines while maintaining a high work rate out of possession. Elliott’s creativity, vision and ability to unlock defenses fit that profile.
Liverpool supporters have long believed Elliott deserves a larger role, and a coach arriving with fresh ideas could provide exactly that. Given the financial realities facing the club, keeping a talented young player rather than spending millions on a replacement would represent smart business.
Joe Gomez
The future of Joe Gomez has been debated for several transfer windows, but Iraola’s arrival could finally end speculation surrounding the defender.
One of Gomez’s greatest strengths is his versatility. He can play at centre-back, right-back and even left-back when required. For a manager operating under financial constraints, such flexibility is invaluable.
Iraola’s teams have historically relied on adaptable defenders capable of covering multiple positions during intense pressing phases. Gomez’s experience, pace and defensive awareness make him an ideal squad member for such an approach.
Rather than sanctioning an expensive replacement, Liverpool may view Gomez as an essential piece of the squad, especially as the club seeks to maintain depth while controlling costs.
Why a Tight Budget Could Change Liverpool’s Transfer Strategy
Reports surrounding Iraola’s expected appointment suggest Liverpool’s hierarchy were attracted by his ability to improve players and compete without enormous spending during his time at Bournemouth.
That reputation could be crucial at Anfield. Instead of demanding multiple high-profile arrivals, the Spaniard may focus on extracting greater performances from existing players. Liverpool’s current squad still contains significant talent, and many supporters believe the team underperformed relative to its potential last season.
Community discussions among Liverpool fans have also highlighted the belief that many members of the current squad are already suited to Iraola’s high-intensity style, reducing the need for dramatic changes.
A Fresh Start at Anfield
The expected appointment of Andoni Iraola represents the beginning of a new era at Liverpool. While transfer speculation will dominate headlines throughout the summer, the club’s financial situation could force a more measured approach.
If that proves to be the case, players such as Curtis Jones, Harvey Elliott and Joe Gomez may find themselves among the biggest winners. Rather than being pushed toward the exit door, all three could become important figures in Iraola’s plans as Liverpool attempt to return to Premier League and European contention under their new head coach.
