Bournemouth have officially confirmed that manager Andoni Iraola will leave the club at the end of the 2025-26 season, concluding his three-year tenure on the south coast. The 43-year-old Spaniard took over in June 2023 and completely transformed the club with his attacking, progressive football philosophy. Iraola was out of contract and had turned down numerous offers to extend, deciding instead to step away. He informed players of his decision on Tuesday, with six games remaining. In a statement, Iraola said: “I feel this is the right moment for me to step away, but I will always carry fantastic memories of this club.” The announcement comes days after a memorable 2-1 win at Premier League leaders Arsenal.
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Iraola’s Remarkable Transformation of Bournemouth
Since joining in June 2023, Andoni Iraola has established himself as one of the most highly regarded Premier League managers. In his first season, he improved Bournemouth three places to finish 12th, earning a contract extension. His finest achievement came in 2024-25 when Bournemouth finished ninth with a club-record 56 points, equaling Eddie Howe’s best-ever finish.
Across 108 matches, Iraola holds the highest win percentage and best points-per-game ratio in the club’s Premier League era. He established a modern philosophy built on intensity, pressing, and attacking intent. This season, Bournemouth remain in contention for European qualification, sitting 11th and just three points from sixth.
Andoni Iraola at Bournemouth – Key Statistics
| Metric | Record |
|---|---|
| Appointment Date | June 2023 |
| Total Matches | 108 |
| Win Percentage | Highest in club’s PL era |
| Points Per Game | Best in club’s PL era |
| First Season Finish | 12th (improved 3 places) |
| Last Season Finish | 9th (56 points – club record) |
| Current Season Position | 11th (3 points from 6th) |
Financial Impact and Player Management
During his tenure, Bournemouth sold key players including Dean Huijsen, Milos Kerkez, Illia Zabarnyi, Dango Ouattara, and Antoine Semenyo for over £250 million combined. Iraola managed these departures seamlessly, maintaining upward trajectory despite significant departures.
Bournemouth will now seek a new head coach as they plan for the future. Chairman Bill Foley praised Iraola’s impact, noting he shaped the club’s direction with intensity and clear philosophy. Sporting director Tiago Pinto described him as tactically intelligent with exceptional attention to detail.
Potential Next Destinations
Iraola’s departure has sparked speculation about his next move. Athletic Bilbao, his boyhood club where he spent 12 years as a player making over 510 appearances and serving as captain, are interested in bringing him back. However, Edin Terzic is the frontrunner to replace Ernesto Valverde there.
Bigger Premier League clubs including Manchester City, Liverpool, and Manchester United are expected to show interest. He was previously linked with Newcastle, Crystal Palace, and Tottenham. Iraola’s decision to leave suggests he believes it is the opportune moment for a fresh challenge with an elite club.
Bournemouth’s Search for a Successor
Bournemouth have moved quickly to identify Iraola’s successor, with Marco Rose, former Borussia Dortmund and RB Salzburg boss, believed to be the frontrunner. The three-man shortlist includes Ipswich manager Kieran McKenna. The club hopes to have this appointment confirmed within the next week or two to begin planning for next season, particularly given the possibility of European qualification. Fitness coach Pablo de la Torre will also leave at season’s end.
Iraola’s Final Games in Charge
Iraola has six games remaining in the 2025-26 season. His final home game will be against Manchester City on May 17, followed by a final trip to Nottingham Forest on the last day. There is an outside chance he could bow out on a high by securing the first European qualification in Bournemouth’s history.
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FAQs
When is Andoni Iraola leaving Bournemouth?
Iraola will leave at the end of 2025-26 season when his contract expires in summer 2026.
Why is Iraola leaving Bournemouth?
Iraola decided it was the right moment to step away after three successful seasons at the club.
How many matches has Iraola managed Bournemouth?
Across 108 matches, he achieved the highest win percentage and points-per-game ratio in club’s PL era.
What are Iraola’s next destination options?
Athletic Bilbao, his boyhood club, is interested. Top Premier League clubs including Manchester United, City, and Liverpool are also expected to show interest.
Who could replace Iraola at Bournemouth?
Marco Rose is the frontrunner, with Ipswich’s Kieran McKenna also on the three-man shortlist.
