Steven Gerrard Reacts to Arne Slot's Liverpool Exit and Backs Andoni Iraola as Potential Successor

Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard has admitted he is "gutted" for Arne Slot following the Dutchman's dismissal, while acknowledging that he was ultimately "not surprised" by the club's decision to part ways with their head coach.

The Reds confirmed Slot's departure on Saturday, bringing an end to a turbulent campaign that saw Liverpool finish fifth in the Premier League despite qualifying for next season's UEFA Champions League.

The decision came less than a week after Liverpool concluded their league season with a 1-1 draw against Brentford at Anfield. While the result secured Champions League football, the Reds finished 25 points behind champions Arsenal — a stark contrast to the title-winning campaign they enjoyed just a year earlier.

Speaking as a pundit for TNT Sports ahead of the Champions League final between Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain in Budapest, Gerrard shared his reaction to the news.

Gerrard: Slot's Achievements Should Not Be Forgotten

The former Liverpool captain paid tribute to Slot's achievements during his first season in charge, particularly considering the challenge of succeeding one of the club's greatest managers.

"Not surprised," Gerrard said.

"I'm gutted for Arne Slot because, in his first year, he did an incredible job. Taking over from Jürgen Klopp was a huge challenge and he stepped into very big shoes.

"To come in and win the Premier League in his first season is an achievement that should never be forgotten. Winning that title was incredibly difficult, and I understand that more than most.

"He will always be remembered in Liverpool's history for what he achieved."

However, Gerrard also acknowledged that Liverpool's performances had declined significantly in recent months.

"Having said that, over the final ten games of last season and for much of this campaign, we have not looked like Liverpool.

"The style of play has been difficult to watch at times. The team has looked disjointed and lacking its usual identity.

"When I first heard the news, my reaction was one of surprise and shock. But when you analyse the situation properly, it is probably the right moment for a change."

Liverpool Already Have a Succession Plan

Gerrard also dismissed suggestions that Liverpool would have made such a major decision without first identifying potential replacements.

"I think we all know how football works," he said.

"I would be very surprised if Liverpool made this decision and then only started thinking about who should come next.

"Liverpool are a very well-organised football club. The people at the top have always planned carefully and strategically.

"The timing also makes sense because it comes at the end of the season. A new manager will have a full pre-season to work with the squad and an opportunity to influence recruitment.

"For any incoming manager, this is the ideal moment to arrive, reset the squad and begin implementing their ideas.

"I would be extremely surprised if Liverpool only started searching for a successor after making this announcement."

Iraola a Strong Candidate for the Liverpool Job

Among the names being linked with the vacancy, Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has emerged as one of the leading contenders.

The Spaniard has received widespread praise for his work at Bournemouth and is reportedly highly regarded within Liverpool's hierarchy.

Asked whether Iraola would be a suitable appointment, Gerrard was full of praise for the Bournemouth boss.

"Potentially, yes," he said.

"I think he has done a fantastic job at Bournemouth and his style of football would suit Liverpool.

"Let's be honest, Liverpool Football Club is one of the most attractive managerial positions in world football. There will be several elite coaches interested in the role.

"However, because of the strong connections between Bournemouth and Liverpool at boardroom level, there will already be a very good understanding of who he is and how he works.

"That said, there are certainly other candidates who will also be considered.

"It is one of the biggest jobs in football, but in answer to your question, yes, I believe Andoni Iraola should absolutely be part of the conversation."