Andoni Iraola could have FIVE giant job offers after Bournemouth exit - and it's easy to see why

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Andoni Iraola has become one of the most sought after managers in European football. Bournemouth boss Iraola, 43, could now have the pick of his clubs after a hugely impressive three-year stint on the South Coast.

Iraola not only guided Bournemouth to a ninth-placed finish last season with a record points tally but he rebuilt the team this season after the club sold the likes of Antoine Semenyo, Dean Huijsen and Milos Kerkez.

His style of football has won many admirers as well as improving players with midfielder Alex Scott developing into one of the most exciting midfielders in the Premier League.

When Bournemouth replaced Gary O’Neil for Iraola in June 2023 it sparked a huge backlash because it was a shock decision and caused much confusion.

But Iraola has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most admired young managers and grew up with Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta and is one of a number of Basque managers like Unai Emery and Xabi Alonso.

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Iraola has a passion and love for Athletic Bilbao where he made over 400 games as a player and the bookies have already made him odds-on to take charge after Ernesto Valverde announced he is leaving at the end of the season.

That news came on the same day as Bournemouth held Manchester United 2-2 last month and when Iraola was asked about it in the post-match press conference the die looked cast.

Iraola said: “It affects me probably as a supporter because I support this club. I've been playing there for a lot of years and it has been a surprise also for me. I have a lot of friends there, and in your group, you see the news and they send you their messages.

“I can only speak very well. It's my biggest reference in football, Ernesto. It's a decision that he has made, but it's not affecting me apart from the supporter side, let's say.”

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You came away thinking that there was only one place he was going. Bournemouth have been trying so hard to convince him to stay but it has become clear that he wants a new challenge.

Iraola has surely earned that opportunity and will have his choice of clubs. He knows Athletic Bilbao is there if he wants it. But, equally, other big jobs could come up this summer.

Real Madrid , Manchester City and Manchester United. Who knows, maybe even Liverpool . Then there could be other Premier League options like Crystal Palace.

This will be a man in demand. He is single-minded, well liked and respected. But also driven. If you are not in his team then you are nowhere. You have to work hard, listen and improve. He has a clear plan but his football is fast, exciting and he has overachieved with this squad.

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Bournemouth chairman Bill Foley said: “Andoni has been instrumental in shaping the direction of this football club over the past three seasons. 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.”

Iraola added: “It has been an honour to manage Bournemouth and I am proud of what we have achieved together. 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.”