Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola is set to depart the club at the end of the current season.
The 43-year-old Spaniard, who took over at the Vitality Stadium in June 2023 after Gary O’Neil’s departure, led the Cherries to a record-setting ninth-place finish in the Premier League last season, achieving the highest points total in the club’s history.
With Iraola’s contract set to end this summer, the club had aimed to negotiate a new deal, but has now accepted his exit.
“AFC Bournemouth can confirm that head coach Andoni Iraola will depart the club at the conclusion of the 2025/26 season, concluding a successful three-year period on the south coast,” the statement read.
Iraola has been linked with a potential return to his former club Athletic Bilbao, as well as the managerial position at Manchester United.
This announcement follows an impressive 2-1 victory against Premier League leaders Arsenal.
“It has been an honor to manage Bournemouth, and I take pride in what we have accomplished together,” Iraola stated on the club’s official website.
“I am grateful to the players and staff I have collaborated with, along with [chairman] Bill [Foley], who have all contributed to making my time here remarkable.”
“To the fans, thank you for your unwavering support towards myself and the team; I will always cherish that.”
“I believe this is the right time for me to step back, but I will forever hold wonderful memories of this club.”
Foley expressed that Iraola has played a crucial role in establishing a “clear philosophy” within the club, which returned to the Premier League under Scott Parker in 2022, following relegation the previous season after spending five years in the top tier.
“Andoni has been key in shaping the direction of this football club over the past three years,” Foley remarked.
“He brought intensity, innovation, and a clear philosophy that has elevated Bournemouth both on and off the pitch.
“We are extremely grateful for his leadership and will always remember the successes we shared.”
Bournemouth has also confirmed that fitness coach Pablo de la Torre will be leaving at the end of the season.