Iraola to leave Bournemouth at the end of the season, McKenna amongst potential replacements

Iraola to leave Bournemouth at the end of the season, McKenna amongst potential replacements

Andoni Iraola will leave Bournemouth at the end of the season when his contract expires, according to David Ornstein.

The Spanish tactician is set to bring an impressive two-year spell on the south coast to a close.

The 43-year-old arrived in 2023 on an initial two-year deal before signing an extension last summer.

Iraola has now informed the club that he wants to leave after prolonged talks over a new contract failed to yield an agreement.

Bournemouth negotiated over 15 months, with the club making serious efforts to retain him.

While disappointed, the Cherries accept the decision. Relations between both parties remain amiable.

Bournemouth have already started plans to appoint a successor to take over the dugout at the Vitality Stadium.

Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna is reportedly high on Bournemouth’s shortlist.

The Northern Irishman has guided Ipswich into promotion contention and is widely regarded as one of the most progressive young coaches in England.

However, Ipswich are determined to keep hold of him, despite a release clause in his contract that can yet prove pivotal.

Other candidates are also under consideration as Bournemouth weigh their next move, mindful of maintaining the progressive, high-intensity style that has defined Iraola’s tenure.

Attention will now turn to Iraola’s next destination.

Crystal Palace have long held an interest, with Oliver Glasner having already confirmed he will depart Selhurst Park at the end of the current campaign.

Athletic Bilbao were also monitoring Iraola as a potential successor to Ernesto Valverde, but that avenue is now unlikely, per the report.

With a return to Bilbao not happening, Palace must seize this opportunity to secure Iraola. He should be at the top of their shortlist of Glasner replacements.

If they are serious about building on recent progress, they should do everything possible to secure Iraola, a coach capable of establishing a tactical identity and improving young players.