Head coach Andoni Iraola to leave Bournemouth at end of season

The 43-year-old, who arrived in June 2023 following the departure of Gary O'Neil, has informed the club he will step down when his current deal expires at the end of the season, despite Bournemouth's efforts to convince him to stay. The decision comes after prolonged discussions that had been ongoing for more than a year, with both sides ultimately unable to reach an agreement.

Bournemouth confirmed his departure in an official statement, saying: "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."

Iraola departs having overseen one of the most progressive and successful periods in the club's recent history. He guided Bournemouth to a ninth-placed Premier League finish last season, setting a new club-record points total of 56, and establishing an attacking identity that earned widespread praise across the league.

Despite significant squad turnover during his tenure - including the departures of Dean Huijsen, Milos Kerkez, Illia Zabarnyi, Dango Ouattara and Antoine Semenyo for a combined 253 million pounds - the Cherries have remained competitive and are still in contention for European qualification this season, sitting just two points off seventh place with six matches remaining.

Iraola's final home game in charge will be against Manchester City on May 17, before concluding his Bournemouth career away at Nottingham Forest on the final day of the Premier League season.

In his own farewell message, Iraola said: "It has been an honour to manage Bournemouth and I am proud of what we have achieved together," adding: "I'm thankful to the players and staff that I've worked with, as well as (chairman) Bill (Foley), who have all made my time here so special."

He continued: "As for the fans, you have continued to show your fantastic support to myself and the team, and for that I will always be grateful."

Iraola concluded: "I feel this is the right moment for me to step away, but I will always carry fantastic memories of this club."

Bournemouth owner Bill Foley paid tribute to the outgoing coach, saying: "Andoni has been instrumental in shaping the direction of this football club over the past three seasons."

He added: "He brought intensity, innovation, and a clear philosophy that elevated Bournemouth both on and off the pitch."

Foley continued: "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."

Behind the scenes, Bournemouth are already preparing for life after Iraola, with reports indicating a shortlist of three preferred candidates has been drawn up as the club begins its succession planning.

Iraola, meanwhile, has been linked with a return to former club Athletic Bilbao as well as potential Premier League opportunities, although he has reportedly not yet finalised his next move. He previously spent 12 years at Athletic as a player, making over 400 appearances, and is believed to be weighing up personal and professional considerations, including a desire to return to Spain with his family.

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