Andoni Iraola to leave Bournemouth at the end of Premier League season - 'The right moment for me to step away'

Iraola’s contract was expiring at the end of the season and Bournemouth are widely reported to have failed in multiple attempts to tie the 43-year-old to a new deal.

”It has been an honour to manage AFC Bournemouth, and I am proud of what we have achieved together,” Iraola told the club’s official website.

”I’m thankful to the players and staff that I’ve worked with, as well as Bill, who have all made my time here so special.

”As for the fans, you have continued to show your fantastic support to myself and the team, and for that I will always be grateful.

”I feel this is the right moment for me to step away, but I will always carry fantastic memories of this club.”

Fitness Coach, Pablo de la Torre, will also leave at the end of the campaign.

Iraola joined The Cherries from Rayo Vallecano to replace Gary O’Neil in 2023. He went on to lead Bournemouth to 12th in his first campaign and ninth last season, with a joint club record 56 points.

Bournemouth are currently 11th in the Premier League table and unbeaten in their past 12 league games.

Iraola’s progressive and dynamic style of football has attracted many admirers, while he has also been praised for managing the departures of Dean Huijsen, Milos Kerkez, Illia Zabarnyi, Dango Ouattara and Antoine Semenyo this season for a combined £253m.

The Basque has been linked with a return to La Liga side Athletic Bilbao, where he spent 12 years as a player and made more than 400 appearances.

Premier League rivals Crystal Palace, have also been linked, as they look to replace the departing Oliver Glasner at the end of the campaign.

Bournemouth chairman Mark Foley said: ”Andoni has been instrumental in shaping the direction of this football club over the past three seasons.

”He brought intensity, innovation, and a clear philosophy that elevated AFC Bournemouth both on and off the pitch.

”We are incredibly thankful for his leadership and will always have great memories of our time working together, as well as the things we accomplished.”

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