Andoni Iraola leaves Bournemouth after securing European football

Andoni Iraola has bid farewell to Bournemouth on a high, securing a spot in the Europa League for the club. His final match in charge, a 1:1 draw against Nottingham Forest, ensured the team finished sixth in the Premier League.

For the 43-year-old manager, the result marks a historic milestone. Under his guidance, the Cherries accumulated a club-record 57 points in a single campaign. The season concluded with a 17-game unbeaten run, highlighting the team's significant progress since a difficult start that yielded only three points from their first nine matches.

I enjoyed every second with the fans, with the players. It is the perfect ending and I am so thankful. Andoni Iraola

Iraola's arrival in June 2023 was driven by the club's desire to transition into a more offensive and proactive style of play. While the players required time to adapt to his high-intensity pressing methods, the philosophy eventually became second nature. The club's ownership had targeted European qualification from the outset, a goal Iraola successfully achieved.

The club now looks toward the future under Marco Rose, who is set to take over as manager. Iraola, meanwhile, has not yet decided on his next career move, noting that he intends to take a break and spend time with his family.