Newly appointed Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola expressed deep humility and a strong desire to reconnect the squad with local supporters during his official unveiling on Monday.
The 44-year-old Basque coach succeeded Arne Slot following the former manager's dismissal on May 30.
Iraola arrives at Anfield after a highly successful three-year tenure at Bournemouth, where he secured European qualification.
While recognizing that leading a global powerhouse like Liverpool represents a monumental career step, Iraola expressed confidence in his gradual progression through La Liga and the Premier League.
"I feel I have a lot of things to prove in terms of I've never coached a club as big as Liverpool," he said.
"It's a big challenge for me. But there always has to be that first moment."
Iraola detailed his brief discussions with ownership, who clarified that the transition would involve managing roster turnover, injuries, and maximizing existing squad talent.
"I need to prove myself and get everyone to know that I belong here," he said. "That's my challenge short term."
Despite the intense spotlight of the new role, the former AEK Larnaca manager stated his intention to integrate into the local community rather than remaining isolated.
"You have to be very aware of the mistakes but I wouldn't like to be too careful," Iraola admitted.
Making Anfield Intimidating Again
Addressing the tactical identity, Iraola noted the importance of making Anfield an intimidating venue for visiting teams by establishing an energetic, high-pressing system.
"I always talk about energy," he said.
"I want my team to be energetic, to be dynamic, to play in the opposition half as much as we can."
"We have to make Anfield a very uncomfortable place to come," Iraola added.
"Sometimes I've been and it's a lovely stadium, lovely atmosphere, and you try to enjoy it.
No. We have to make it so it's nice for us but the opposition is going to have a hard time."
He emphasized that creating a reciprocal bond with the Anfield crowd is a primary objective that must originate from the performance of the players.
"One of our biggest advantages is if we get this connection from the team to the supporters, from the supporters to the team, it will be very difficult to stop us, especially at home," Iraola said.
"I think it's something that has to come from the team. I know if the team gives what we want, we'll have everyone behind us."
The head coach also addressed recent off-field developments, including the departure of Fenway Sports Group's chief executive of football Michael Edwards and uncertainty surrounding sporting director Richard Hughes.
"I have to be honest, I'm focused on my job which is a massive one," Iraola insisted.
"I talk to Richard, I talk to Mike Gordon, I talked to Michael Edwards – he seems super-smart so it is unfortunate he's not going to continue with us."
