SOCCER: Iraola to leave Bournemouth at the end of season

Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola will leave the Premier League club at the end of the 2025–26 season, the club confirmed on Tuesday.

The 43-year-old Spaniard had extended his contract in May 2024, with the agreement set to run through this campaign. Iraola, who took charge in 2023, replaced Gary O'Neil and was instrumental in a remarkable turnaround for the club. Under his leadership, Bournemouth achieved their highest-ever Premier League points total—56—during the 2024-25 season, securing a joint-best top-flight finish of ninth.

“AFC Bournemouth can confirm that head coach Andoni Iraola will leave the club at the conclusion of the 2025–26 season, bringing an end to his successful three-year tenure on the south coast,” the club stated in an official announcement.

"Iraola has played a pivotal role in establishing the club's identity in the Premier League, earning widespread recognition for his progressive style of play and commitment to developing both emerging and established talent."

The club's performance has seen a significant improvement during Iraola's reign, and he has earned admiration for his work ethic and football philosophy.

Reports from British media indicate that Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna is among the candidates being considered to replace Iraola. Additionally, the Spaniard has been linked with a return to Spain, with Athletic Club set to part ways with manager Ernesto Valverde at season's end. Iraola, who played for Athletic between 2003 and 2015, is also a contender for the vacancy.

Speculation around Iraola's future includes potential interest from Crystal Palace, with their current manager, Oliver Glasner, also due to depart at the conclusion of the season.

Reflecting on his time at Bournemouth, Iraola said, "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 I've worked with, as well as Bill, who have all made my time here so special. As for the fans, you have continued to show fantastic support to myself and the team, and for that I will always be grateful. I feel this is the right moment for me to step away, but I will always carry wonderful memories of this club."

Iraola’s previous managerial roles include stints at AEK Larnaca, Mirandes, and Rayo Vallecano.

Bournemouth, fresh off a 2-1 victory over league leaders Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday, currently sit 11th in the Premier League with 45 points from 32 matches. Their next match is against Newcastle United on Saturday.

-Reporting by Pearl Josephine Nazare in Bengaluru, editing by Ed Osmond and Christian Radnedge/Reuters