Andoni Iraola will leave Bournemouth when his contract expires at the end of the season, ending a wonderful spell at the Vitality Stadium.
Bournemouth confirmed the latest development on Tuesday afternoon, as The Athletic claim that the club tried everything possible to keep Iraola after 15 months of negotiations.
Disappointed to lose the Spanish tactician, Bournemouth have decided to respect his decision and maintain a strong relationship.
Bournemouth are in a healthy position despite the impending exit, currently sitting 11th in the Premier League table and enjoying a remarkable 12-game unbeaten run.
Iraola said in a press release: “It has been an honour to manage AFC Bournemouth and I am proud of what we have achieved together. I’m thankful to the players and staff that I’ve worked with, as well as Bill, who have all made my time here so special. I feel this is the right moment for me to step away, but I will always carry fantastic memories of this club.”
Andoni Iraola will leave Bournemouth at the end of the season. (Photo by Robin Jones – AFC Bournemouth via Getty Images)
Bournemouth chairman Bill Foley added: “Andoni has been instrumental in shaping the direction of this football club over the past three seasons. He brought intensity, innovation, and a clear philosophy that elevated AFC Bournemouth both on and off the pitch. We are incredibly thankful for his leadership and will always have great memories of our time working together, as well as the things we accomplished.”
Andoni Iraola next move
Undoubtedly one of the best tactician in the Premier League, Andoni Iraola has been linked with various club in England.
According to The Athletic, Iraola is one of Crystal Palace’s targets, after manager Oliver Glasner confirmed he will leave the south London side at the end of the season in January.
Spanish side Athletic Club are also said to be interested in appointing Iraola, with Ernesto Valverde announcing his upcoming exit last month.
With Manchester United yet to decide whether Michael Carrick will be made their permanent manager, Iraola has also been linked with the Red Devils.
Iraola joined Bournemouth from Rayo Vallecano in June 2023 and guided the club to a 12th place Premier League finish in his first season at the helm. The Cherries then finished ninth last season, nine points outside of the European qualification places.
