Slot shown the door at Anfield: Iraola waiting in the wings

The news from Merseyside this morning lands like a rogue tackle in the midfield. Arne Slot, the man tasked with restoring a semblance of order to the post Klopp era, has been sacked by Liverpool. It feels premature, even by the brutal standards of modern ownership, but the results board doesn't lie. The Dutchman's high press never quite clicked with the personnel at his disposal, and a string of insipid displays against low blocks sealed his fate. The Anfield hierarchy have clearly decided they cannot afford a transition season when the Champions League final is on the horizon and the fanbase is already in full voice.So who gets the nod Andoni Iraola is the name being whispered in the corridors of power. The Bournemouth manager has been turning heads with his side's aggressive transitional play and high energy football. He's a pragmatist who isn't afraid to tear up the script at half time. If you are a Liverpool supporter, ask yourself this: can Iraola handle the weight of the Kop He has the tactical flexibility to switch between a 4. 2. 3. 1 and a 4. 3. 3 without losing shape, something Slot struggled with when Plan A failed. It is a gamble, sure, but it is a calculated one.Meanwhile, the focus shifts to Budapest, where Arsenal fans are already planning their race to the final. The Champions League buildup is in full swing, but let's not kid ourselves that the real drama is on the pitch yet. It is squeaky bum time in the boardroom. And can we just take a moment to address the elephant in the room Gianni Infantino has been seen roaming around in a coat that looks like it was nicked from the East 17 wardrobe department. Big white number, all fur and nonsense. He is out there trying to charm the Canadians ahead of the World Cup, and frankly, it is as surreal as it sounds. With less than two weeks until Mexico v South Africa kicks things off, perhaps we should all take a breath. The beautiful game is about to get very, very weird.