Football Presse

Iraola leaving Bournemouth with Palace, Chelsea and others in pursuit

ยทBy Paul Lindisfarne
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Andoni Iraola will leave Bournemouth when his contract expires this summer, with Crystal Palace, Chelsea and several other clubs chasing the most coveted manager in English football.

The 43-year-old Spaniard joined Bournemouth in 2023 and has led the Cherries to finishes of 12th, ninth and now a prospective sixth place โ€” with European football still mathematically possible โ€” across three seasons.

Crystal Palace, who confirmed the departure of head coach Oliver Glasner at the end of the season, have identified Iraola as their primary target, with El Chiringuito reporting he is close to an agreement at Selhurst Park. However, reports state that Palace expect him to go elsewhere, with Chelsea โ€” who sacked Liam Rosenior โ€” also competing for his signature.

Iraola is said to be in no hurry and will wait until the end of the season to assess his options. He is understood to favour a club with established European credentials and would consider Palace only if they secure Europa League football.

Bournemouth have already announced Marco Rose as his successor.

With the Cherries sixth and unbeaten in 15 Premier League games, Iraola departs having changed the perception of what the club is capable of. Kroupi and Rayan are the obvious beneficiaries of a man who gave teenagers the platform to become world-class prospects.

Where he goes next matters. Any club would be buying a manager at or near the peak of his powers.