Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola is keen on the possibility of becoming the next permanent head coach of Chelsea, according to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano. The Blues are searching for a new boss after dismissing Liam Rosenior earlier this week and have compiled a shortlist of potential candidates.
Romano reports that Iraola, who is set to leave Bournemouth when his contract expires this summer, would be enthusiastic about remaining in the Premier League and is interested in the vacancy at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea's ownership is understood to be prioritising a manager with proven experience, a criterion the Spanish coach meets following his successful tenure on the south coast. However, Romano stresses that talks are not advanced, with the club still in the early stages of their selection process.
The 41-year-old had been strongly linked with a return to Athletic Club, where he spent the majority of his playing career, but that position is now set to be filled by Edin Terzic. This development has opened a potential pathway for Iraola to join Chelsea. Other names connected with the role include Xabi Alonso, Marco Silva, Xavi, Julian Nagelsmann, and even former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho.
Meanwhile, Romano has cast doubt on the possibility of another candidate with Chelsea connections, Cesc Fabregas, taking the job. The former Blues midfielder is currently managing Serie A side Como and is deeply invested in their project for next season. According to Romano, Como are convinced Fabregas will remain in charge as they aim for European qualification, making a move to west London appear unlikely unless Chelsea make a decisive push.
Iraola's stock has risen significantly since taking over at Bournemouth in 2023, where he implemented an aggressive, high-pressing style of play that earned widespread praise. His potential appointment would represent a shift towards a more modern, tactically defined project for Chelsea, who have cycled through multiple managers since the club's change of ownership in 2022. The coming weeks will be crucial as Chelsea's decision-makers deliberate on their final choice to lead the team into the next campaign.
