With the expected news that Andoni Iraola is expected to leave Bournemouth at the end of the seasonthe merry-go-round of management kicked into overdrive.
The Spaniard has transformed the Cherries into one of the most exciting, exciting outfits in the Premier League, most recently masterminding Arsenal’s stunning 2-1 win at the Emirates. His stock has never been higher, and after three seasons on the South Coast, a number of top clubs are circling.
But where will the former Rayo Vallecano man land next? We take a look at the top contenders for his signing.
Manchester United
The pressure on the Old Trafford hot seat never really goes away, and Iraola’s name was reportedly at the top of the list during the INEOS period.
As United look to implement a modern, high-quality sporting structure, Iraola fits the tactical profile perfectly. His ability to develop individual players and implement a clear identity on a limited budget at Bournemouth suggests he could thrive with the resources available at United, who are desperate to regain their place in the Champions League.
Caretaker manager Michael Carrick has done well at Old Trafford but a costly defeat to Leeds on Monday night has set him back.
Former England midfielder Jamie Redknapp told Iraola to move north earlier this season.
“He’s amazing,” former England midfielder Redknapp told Sky Sports. “What an asset he is to the team. He can manage any team in world football – I mean that.
“He has high quality and develops players. He gives young players opportunities. The system is very good – everything you do is forward, exciting, on the front foot. [Bournemouth] you just have to enjoy him while he’s there [there].”
The Crystal Palace
Oliver Glasner is another man on the move this summer as his time at Palace comes to an end.
After losing star Eberechi Eze to Arsenal in the summer of 2025, Palace have been trying to rebuild but are still missing key players.
Iraola’s aggressive and vertical style of play would suit the quick assets left at Selhurst Park, although he may feel his next step should be at a club already challenging for Europe’s best.
Newcastle United
The Magpies are a club with Champions League ambitions and fans who want the best football. Although Eddie Howe remains a respected figure, a poor domestic season has put him under pressure and ownership may look to a “system coach” like Iraola.
His link-up with Bournemouth (following in Howe’s footsteps) made for an easy narrative, but it was his tactical brilliance – especially his ability to break down the “Big Six” – that really excited the St James’ Park faithful.
Athletic Bilbao
Homecoming is always the most romantic place you are likely to go. Iraola is a legend at San Mamés with 500 appearances as a player, and rumors are rife that he is the man chosen to succeed Ernesto Valverde.
While ex-Dortmund manager Edin Terzić has also been linked, the Basque’s connections are often successful in Bilbao. Iraola knows the team’s philosophy better than anyone, making this a matter of “when,” not “if.”
Real Madrid
The atmosphere at the Bernabéu has changed dramatically. With Alvaro Arbeloa currently in charge following the departure of Xabi Alonso (who succeeded Carlo Ancelotti), the team is in a new era of internal promotion. However, Florentino Pérez is always on the lookout for the best young tacticians in Europe. If the Arbeloa test doesn’t work, Iraola’s complex set-up and Spanish roots make him a prime candidate to bring “Iraola football” to the capital.
