Andoni Iraola has officially confirmed he will leave AFC Bournemouth at the end of the 2025/26 season, bringing an end to what has been widely regarded as a highly successful spell on the south coast.
The 43-year-old manager, who took over in June 2023 following Gary O’Neil’s departure, informed the club of his decision after both parties failed to reach an agreement on a new contract despite lengthy negotiations that reportedly lasted over a year.
In an official statement, Bournemouth confirmed the development, stating that Iraola will step down once his current deal expires, closing the chapter on a three-year tenure that has significantly elevated the club’s status.
During his time in charge, Iraola oversaw one of the most impressive periods in Bournemouth’s modern history. He guided the team to a ninth-place finish in the Premier League, amassing a club record 56 points while earning praise for an exciting, attacking style of football.
Despite major squad changes, including the departures of key players such as Dean Huijsen, Milos Kerkez, Illia Zabarnyi, Dango Ouattara, and Antoine Semenyo in deals totalling £253 million, Bournemouth have remained competitive and are still pushing for European qualification, sitting just two points off seventh place with six games left.
Iraola is set to take charge of his final home game against Manchester City on May 17, before concluding his Bournemouth journey with an away fixture against Nottingham Forest on the final day of the season.
In his farewell message, the Spanish tactician expressed pride and gratitude for his time at the club.
“It has been an honour to manage Bournemouth and I am proud of what we have achieved together,” he said, while also thanking the players, staff, chairman Bill Foley, and the fans for their unwavering support.
He added, “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.”
His departure now leaves Bournemouth with a major decision to make as they look for a successor capable of continuing the progress he has made.
