Bournemouth confirm manager Andoni Iraola will depart at season's end
AFC Bournemouth have confirmed that manager Andoni Iraola will leave the club at the end of the 2025-26 season. The announcement was made in an official club statement released on Tuesday, just days after the Cherries secured a notable 2-1 away victory over Arsenal in the Premier League.
Iraola, 43, stated that he believes the time is right for a new challenge. "It has been an honour to manage AFC Bournemouth and I am proud of what we have achieved together," the Spanish coach said. "I think this is the right time for me to move on, but I will always carry fantastic memories of this club." He arrived on the south coast in the summer of 2023 after a successful three-year spell with La Liga side Rayo Vallecano.
During his tenure, Iraola built a strong reputation in English football for implementing an intense, high-pressing style and an attacking philosophy. His work in developing young talent at the Vitality Stadium attracted attention from several larger clubs, making his departure a significant blow for Bournemouth's long-term project. The club currently sits 11th in the Premier League table.
The news compounds a period of transition for Bournemouth, who last summer saw key players Dean Huijsen, Illia Zabarnyi, and Milos Kerkez depart for Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, and Liverpool respectively. Losing the architect of their recent playing identity represents another major challenge for the club's hierarchy as they plan for the future.
According to the source report, the announcement has disappointed supporters who were buoyed by the recent result at the Emirates Stadium. The club's statement did not provide details on a potential successor or Iraola's next destination. The search for a new manager who can build upon the foundations laid in the last three seasons will now become a priority for the Bournemouth board.
The departure marks the end of a progressive chapter for the club, which has consistently punched above its weight under Iraola's guidance. His exit will inevitably raise questions about whether Bournemouth can maintain their attractive style of play and competitive league position without him at the helm.
