Bournemouth confirm imminent Andoni Iraola departure amid Manchester United links | OneFootball

Decision confirmed days after famous win over Arsenal

The 43-year-old Spaniard took the helm in June 2023 following the departure of Gary O'Neil and guided the Cherries to a ninth-place finish last season, setting a club-record points tally in doing so.

"AFC Bournemouth can confirm that head coach, Andoni Iraola, will leave the club at the conclusion of the 2025/26 season, bringing an end to his successful three-year tenure on the south coast," a statement read.

Iraola has been linked with a return to former team Athletic Bilbao, as well as the Manchester United job. He will, however, face competition from interim boss Michael Carrick, who has impressed since taking over from Ruben Amorim in January.

Crystal Palace will also be looking for a new manager this summer, with Oliver Glasner due to depart the south London club upon the expiration of his deal.

Kieran McKenna of Ipswich Town and former Borussia Dortmund boss Marco Rose have both been shortlisted as potential replacements.

The news of Iraola's departure comes just a few days after a memorable 2-1 win at Premier League leaders Arsenal.

"It has been an honour to manage Bournemouth and I am proud of what we have achieved together," Iraola said on the club website.

"I'm thankful to the players and staff that I've worked with, as well as (chairman) Bill (Foley), 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."

Foley said Iraola had helped shape a "clear philosophy" within the club, which returned to the Premier League under Scott Parker in 2022, having been relegated the previous campaign after five seasons in the top flight.

"Andoni has been instrumental in shaping the direction of this football club over the past three seasons," Foley said.

"He brought intensity, innovation, and a clear philosophy that elevated 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."