Iraola backed for Newcastle job with surprise second-favourite

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The Football Faithful

·15 April 2026

Iraola backed for Newcastle job with surprise second-favourite

Andoni Iraola has been installed as the bookmakers’ favourite to become Newcastle’s next manager.

Eddie Howe’s position at St James’ Park has come under scrutiny following a difficult campaign for Newcastle. The Magpies have lost four of their last six Premier League games and are 14th in the table, 10 points adrift of Champions League qualification.

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Iraola’s odds of becoming the next Magpies’ manager have been slashed, following confirmation that he will leave Bournemouth. The Spaniard has turned down a contract extension and will leave as a free agent in the summer.

Jose Mourinho has been backed as a surprise second-favourite. The Benfica boss has previously discussed his admiration for the Premier League side, due to his working relationship with former Newcastle manager Bobby Robson.

“It’s a club I feel connection with because of Mr Robson, it’s a simple as that,” Mourinho explained to Sky Sports in 2020.

“He had a huge passion for Newcastle and his area, Durham. He had it in his heart. So, through him I have become a little magpie!”

Other options include Oliver Glasner, who will leave Crystal Palace this summer, and Marco Silva, whose contract with Fulham expires in July.