Andoni Iraola to Depart Bournemouth at Season's End

Andoni Iraola, the head coach of AFC Bournemouth, will leave the club when his contract expires at the end of the 2025-26 season. The announcement was confirmed by Bournemouth after Iraola described his decision as the “right moment to step away.” Having joined the club in June 2023 on an initial two-year deal, he extended his contract in the summer of 2024. Despite efforts from Bournemouth to retain him, sources indicate that the club respects his decision and maintains a strong relationship with him. The squad was informed of his departure prior to the official announcement, and the club has already begun searching for his successor, with Ipswich Town’s Kieran McKenna being a prominent candidate.

New York Times

Iraola's tenure at Bournemouth has been marked by significant achievements, including transforming the team's playing style into an aggressive, high-pressing approach. Under his leadership, Bournemouth has become known for its entertaining and proactive football, which has garnered admiration across the league. The club finished 12th in his first season and improved to ninth in the 2024-25 campaign, despite a challenging start. This season, Bournemouth is currently 11th in the Premier League and has not lost in the league since early January 2026.

New York Times

Iraola's strategies have not only elevated Bournemouth's performance but have also influenced the tactical landscape of the Premier League. His coaching philosophy emphasized physicality, athleticism, and a quick transition from defense to attack, which has inspired other clubs to adopt similar aggressive tactics.

New York Times

Despite his successes, Iraola faced challenges during his time at Bournemouth, including a difficult period marked by an 11-game winless streak. The team lost key players such as Dean Huijsen, Ilya Zabarnyi, Milos Kerkez, and Dango Ouattara during the summer transfer window, which impacted their early season performance. Critics argue that while Iraola improved the team's identity and style, he ultimately fell short of leading them to European competition.

New York Times

Bournemouth chairman Billy Foley praised Iraola's contributions, stating he was “instrumental in shaping the direction” of the club. Foley highlighted Iraola's ability to bring intensity, innovation, and a clear philosophy that elevated Bournemouth both on and off the pitch. Iraola himself expressed pride in his achievements at the club, noting, “It has been an honour to manage AFC Bournemouth... I will always carry fantastic memories of this club.”

New York Times

As Bournemouth prepares for Iraola's departure, the club is actively seeking a new head coach to continue building on the foundation he established. The search for a replacement is ongoing, with McKenna being a leading candidate, although other options are also under consideration.

New York Times

• “It has been an honour to manage AFC Bournemouth and I am proud of what we have achieved together,” — Andoni Iraola, Head Coach, AFC Bournemouth

New York Times

• “He brought intensity, innovation, and a clear philosophy that elevated AFC Bournemouth both on and off the pitch,” — Billy Foley, Chairman, AFC Bournemouth

New York Times