Andoni Iraola keen on Chelsea manager role as search begins
Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola is keen on 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 the Spaniard, who will leave the Cherries at the end of the season, is understood to be among the candidates under consideration.
Chelsea's hierarchy is reportedly prioritizing a manager with proven experience, and Iraola's work on the south coast has brought him into contention. The 41-year-old guided Bournemouth to a comfortable mid-table finish in his first Premier League season, impressing with an aggressive, high-pressing style of play. His impending availability, after confirmation he will not renew his contract, has alerted several clubs.
Romano reported that Iraola would be "more than happy to continue in the Premier League" and is interested in the Chelsea vacancy. However, he stressed that the process remains in its early stages, with no advanced talks currently taking place. Chelsea are said to be taking their time to evaluate a shortlist that has also included names like Xabi Alonso, Marco Silva, and Julian Nagelsmann in various reports.
The situation represents a shift for Iraola, who was previously strongly linked with a return to Athletic Club, where he spent most of his playing career. That move appears to have cooled after the Basque club agreed terms with Edin Terzic, potentially clearing a path for Iraola to pursue other opportunities, with Chelsea now a possible destination.
In other developments, Romano cast doubt on the possibility of another candidate with Chelsea connections, Cesc Fabregas, taking the role. The former Blues midfielder is currently managing Serie A's Como and is deeply committed to that project, planning for next season with the ambition of European football. While Como are convinced Fabregas will stay, Romano noted that a major change of heart could theoretically occur depending on Chelsea's decision-making process.
The search for Chelsea's next manager marks another pivotal moment for the club's sporting project under the current ownership, which has now parted ways with multiple permanent managers in a short period. Securing a coach who can bring stability and implement a clear long-term vision is seen as crucial. For Iraola, the move would represent a significant step up to a club with greater resources and expectations, testing his tactical philosophy on a larger stage.
