Premier League: Head coach Andoni Iraola to leave Bournemouth at end of season

Andoni Iraola is set to leave AFC Bournemouth at the end of the season. The 43-year-old Spaniard guided the Cherries to a ninth-place finish in the Premier League last season, their highest-ever points tally in the competition.

In Short

• Andoni Iraola is set to leave AFC Bournemouth at the end of the season
• Iraola led Bournemouth to record ninth place in the Premier League
• The club negotiated a new contract, but accepted Iraola's decision to leave

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, who joined in 2023 following the departure of Gary O'Neil, oversaw a marked improvement in Bournemouth's performances and results during his tenure.

In a statement, AFC Bournemouth said Iraola would depart upon the expiry of his contract, bringing an end to his three-year spell on the south coast.

"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 statement read.

Bournemouth recorded their highest-ever Premier League points tally of 56 during the 2024-25 season under Iraola, matching their best top-flight finish of ninth place. The announcement comes days after a 2-1 win over leaders Arsenal.

The club had held talks over a new deal but have now accepted Iraola's decision to move on. "It has been an honour to manage Bournemouth and I am proud of what we have achieved together," Iraola said.

"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. "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.

"I feel this is the right moment for me to step away, but I will always carry fantastic memories of this club." Chairman Bill Foley said Iraola had helped shape the club's direction over the past three seasons.

"Andoni has been instrumental in shaping the direction of this football club over the past three seasons," Foley said.

"He brought intensity, innovation, and a clear philosophy that elevated 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."

British media reports have linked Kieran McKenna, currently in charge of Ipswich Town, as a potential replacement.

Iraola has also been linked with a return to Athletic Bilbao, where he spent over a decade as a player, as well as interest from Manchester United.

Bournemouth confirmed fitness coach Pablo de la Torre will also leave at the end of the season.

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