Which manager led Liverpool into its 2026–27 Premier League opening-weekend match?

Andoni Iraola led Liverpool into its 2026–27 Premier League opening-weekend match.

Liverpool began the campaign away to Newcastle United on Sunday, 23 August 2026, at St James’ Park. Iraola was listed as Liverpool’s manager for the season after moving from Bournemouth, where he had previously managed in the Premier League.

The appointment was one of several major managerial changes before the season. Liverpool replaced Arne Slot, while Manchester City appointed Enzo Maresca and Newcastle United appointed Matthias Jaissle. Those changes make the opening weekend a useful snapshot of a significantly reshaped league.

Arne Slot is the most likely mix-up because he had been Liverpool’s manager before Iraola. Jürgen Klopp is another historical alternative, while Eddie Howe was associated with Newcastle rather than Liverpool.