Liverpool have installed Andoni Iraola as their new head coach.
Iraola becomes the 23rd permanent appointment in the Anfield hot seat after agreeing a two-year contract following Arne Slot’s sacking last weekend.
The Basque coach arrives as a free agent after leaving Bournemouth at the end of last season, having guided them to Europa League qualification.
A host of European clubs were pursuing Iraola including AC Milan, Bayer Leverkusen and Crystal Palace following his departure from the South Coast.
But the 43-year-old, who reunites with sporting director Richard Hughes, spoke of the importance of forging an emotional connection with the Reds.
“At the beginning when you arrive at any club, I think you need to kind of prove a little bit yourself,” said Iraola.
“You need to earn the right also to belong.
“I want to do this as quickly as possible so I can also celebrate with them and I can be part properly of those celebrations.
“For me, football is about emotions. About passion. I’m quite cool-headed probably, during my life quite rational, I would say.
“But it’s true that when the game starts, when you have to celebrate a goal, something is inside, no?
“I think this inner energy, you need it as a player, you need it as a supporter, you need it as a coach. No better place than Anfield.”
Iraola also insists that he is fully aware of the expectations which immediately lie ahead after taking over the dugout of the 20-time English champions.
He added: “I think Liverpool gives me the chance to coach top players, and top players give you the chance to fight for titles. To win titles.
“Obviously when you arrive at a place, you cannot promise everything. You cannot promise.
“But it’s true that I understand where I’m coming and what is expected. I’m ready for the challenge.”