Story perspectives

Bournemouth tech director Simon Francis departs, Al Hilal pursues.

5/2/2026

Summary

Story summary

AFC Bournemouth said technical director Simon Francis will leave at season’s end, with Al Hilal interested.
He oversaw €15 million Dean Huijsen signing and a Spanish defender’s £50 million sale to Real Madrid.
In January 2025 Bournemouth bought Eli Junior Kroupi for £12 million, who has 11 goals in 29 games.
In January 2026 the club sold Antoine Semenyo to Manchester City for £62.5 million and £1.5 million bonuses, leaving Bournemouth seventh with 49 points after 56-point season.

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Story summary

AFC Bournemouth said technical director Simon Francis will leave at season’s end, with Al Hilal interested.
He oversaw €15 million Dean Huijsen signing and a Spanish defender’s £50 million sale to Real Madrid.
In January 2025 Bournemouth bought Eli Junior Kroupi for £12 million, who has 11 goals in 29 games.
In January 2026 the club sold Antoine Semenyo to Manchester City for £62.5 million and £1.5 million bonuses, leaving Bournemouth seventh with 49 points after 56-point season.