Andoni Iraola to Depart AFC Bournemouth at Season's End
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Key Takeaways
Bournemouth, April 14 (NationPress) The Premier League team AFC Bournemouth has announced that head coach Andoni Iraola will depart from the club at the end of the 2025/26 season, marking the conclusion of his fruitful three-year stint on the southern coast.
Since his arrival, the club has remained competitive in the Premier League, notably achieving a remarkable record of 56 points during the 2024/25 season and securing their joint-best finish in ninth place, as stated by AFC Bournemouth on Tuesday.
Iraola has been crucial in defining the club's identity in the Premier League, gaining acclaim for his forward-thinking approach and dedication to nurturing both young and seasoned players, the announcement highlighted.
Additionally, Fitness Coach Pablo de la Torre will also be leaving the club at the end of the 2025/26 season.
After the announcement, Chairman Bill Foley commented on Iraola's influence and the achievements reached together over the past three years:
“Andoni has played a key role in steering this football club in the right direction over the last three seasons. His intensity, creativity, and clear philosophy have elevated AFC Bournemouth both on and off the field. We are immensely grateful for his guidance and will cherish the memories of our collaboration and the success we shared,” he expressed.
Tiago Pinto, the club's Head of Football Operations, shared similar thoughts: “Andoni is someone I greatly respect, both as a coach and an individual. His meticulousness, strategic insight, and ability to maximize player potential have been evident daily. We have witnessed the growth of individuals under his guidance, both at AFC Bournemouth and in various top leagues across Europe. We respect his decision and are thankful for everything he has contributed to our club over the past three years.”
In response to the decision, Iraola expressed his gratitude to the club and reflected on his experiences over the last three years:
“It has been a privilege to manage AFC Bournemouth, and I take pride in what we have accomplished together. I am thankful to the players and staff I have collaborated with, as well as Bill, who have all made my tenure here extraordinarily special. To the fans, your unwavering support for the team and me has been invaluable, and I will forever appreciate it. I believe this is the right time for me to move on, but I will always hold dear the memories of this club.”
The club wishes to extend its heartfelt gratitude to Andoni Iraola for his remarkable contributions and conveys best wishes to him and his family for the future.