Bournemouth

Nizaar Kinsella
Football reporter

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Some of you have been using our Ask Me Anything about Bournemouth form to query the likelihood of the Cherries holding onto players like Rayan and Eli Junior Kroupi this summer.

Bournemouth will expect to lose them someday if their form continues and they are powerless to stop it if certain bids come in.

However, especially in Rayan's case, the fee will be so large that he would be unlikely to leave.

There is a feeling that the recently-capped Brazil international will complete at least one season before encouraging any big clubs to trigger his release clause of 100m euros.

Unfortunately, the better players that join Bournemouth, the harder it is to keep them for many seasons.

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We want to reward your time by telling you things you do not know and reminding you of things you do.

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Mark Mitchener
BBC Sport Senior Journalist

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"Don't cry because it's over. Smile because it happened."

A phrase often attributed to children's author Dr Seuss, though its exact origin is unclear - but a phrase whose sentiment was likely shared among Bournemouth's followers on Tuesday when the news they had feared was confirmed.

Head coach Andoni Iraola will be departing in the summer.

Like any club, the Cherries have lost managers before in unwanted circumstances. John Bond's departure for Norwich in 1973 left a bitter taste in the mouth for years after he proceeded to sign nearly half the Bournemouth team to join him at Carrow Road.

A decade earlier, player-manager Bill McGarry's decision to leave for Watford left the Cherries not only needing a new manager, but having to replace their best player.

In later years, Harry Redknapp and Eddie Howe had both seemingly been indelibly linked with the Dean Court club after nearly a decade in charge apiece, but both went on to managerial success elsewhere.

And so it is likely to be with Iraola, whether back at Athletic Club where he reached legendary status as a player and remains a supporter, or whether one of England or Europe's elite come calling.

And as such, the Bournemouth faithful can look back at three years under the Spaniard which have contained their joint-highest league finish, their highest top-flight points tally and some of the most memorable games in their history.

Any such shortlist would have to include the back-to-back 3-0 wins at Old Trafford plus the epic 4-4 draw there earlier this season, three wins in their past four games with Arsenal culminating in Saturday's success which blew the title race open, and finally slaying the Manchester City dragon in the clubs' 22nd league and cup meeting.

Liverpool and Tottenham have been beaten by Iraola's Cherries, who have also pulled off some spectacular late comebacks, such as coming from 3-0 down at half-time to beat Luton 4-3 in 2024, and last season's late heist at Goodison Park where Everton had led 2-0 going into the 87th minute, only for Iraola's men to burgle a 3-2 win.

In a purple patch in January 2025, an injury-ravaged Cherries side pummelled in-form Newcastle 4-1 in what must rank as one of the best away performances in the club's history, before turning on the style at home a week later to thrash Nottingham Forest 5-0.

This season, the Cherries are currently riding the wave of a record 12-game unbeaten top-flight run as Iraola's magic touch has defied prophecies of doom made after multiple sales of key players in the past two transfer windows.

Nothing lasts forever, and Iraola's replacement will have the chance to forge a new history of their own. But they will have big shoes to fill, after a three-year spell which future generations may look back on as a golden age.

Bournemouth are in advanced talks to hire former Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig boss Marco Rose as their new head coach, with the 49-year-old German currently without a club. Telegraph - subscription required, external

Liverpool are leading the race for Cherries defender Marcos Senesi, who is out of contract this summer. (i paper, external)

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If you missed BBC Radio Solent's special hour-long programme on Tuesday reacting to the news that Andoni Iraola will leave his position as Bournemouth boss at the end of the season, you can listen back to it in full on BBC Sounds or by clicking the play button below.

Among the contributors was former Cherries defender Steve Cook, as well as ex-world champion boxer and Bournemouth fan Chris Billam-Smith.

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Former Bournemouth defender Steve Cook says Andoni Iraola should be considered as one of the club's greatest ever managers.

He told BBC Radio Solent: "He has really propelled them up the table and helped them make a lot of money with player sales. He is definitely up there [as] one of the greatest.

"He has done an incredible job. I think he's a manager that probably doesn't stay around too long and I think three years is probably his spell. He obviously wants to challenge himself in another way and I think he probably deserves that.

"He has done an outstanding job at Bournemouth and in his eyes, maybe he thinks he has taken the club as far as he thinks he can get them."

Click below to hear the interview in full or listen on BBC Sounds - where you can also find an special hour-long programme reacting to the news of Iraola's summer exit.

Bournemouth forward Junior Kroupi and defender Marcos Senesi are being monitored by Manchester United. (Mail - subscription needed, external)

The Cherries are considering Rayo Vallecano boss Inigo Perez, Coventry City manager Frank Lampard and Ipswich Town boss Kieran McKenna as they plan for life after Andoni Iraola. (i Sport, external)

Unattached German manager Marco Rose, whose most recent job was at RB Leipzig, is thought to be the leading contender to replace the outgoing Bournemouth boss. (Guardian, external)

Want more transfer stories? Read Wednesday's full gossip column

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Two Premier League heavyweights are set to face each other this weekend at Etihad Stadium, as Manchester City host Arsenal.

Both teams go into the fixture with different targets. For Mikel Arteta's side, it is about extending their lead at the top of the table. For Pep Guardiola's side, it is about closing the gap and keeping themselves in the title race.

It is a fixture being labelled a title decider by some, so we want to know who you want to win this Sunday's match.

Will you be cheering on the Citizens or getting behind the Gunners?

Make your selection

Tom Jordan
Fan writer

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The news all Bournemouth fans feared has been announced and Andoni Iraola will indeed be leaving the club at the end of the season.

While it remains to be seen what his next destination will be, the Bournemouth hierarchy will undoubtedly be working to find his replacement as soon as possible.

The immediate mood among Cherries fans is that of being gutted. Iraola's three seasons at Vitality Stadium have been an unqualified success, transforming the Cherries from a side fighting for survival into a consistent, high-pressing Premier League side capable of punching above their weight.

His departure will undoubtedly spark concern for the Cherries' supporters, but it also offers a moment to reflect on just how impactful his tenure has been on the south coast.

When Iraola arrived from Rayo Vallecano, there was more intrigue than expectation. Could his clear identity and intense pressing style could translate to the Premier League? Those doubts were quickly put to bed as he elevated Bournemouth into one of the most aggressive and tactically coherent sides outside the traditional elite. Plenty of impactful results and performances soon demonstrated that Iraola's Bournemouth was no longer a team merely aiming to survive, but to thrive.

Replacing a manager of Iraola's calibre will be no easy task, but it will be one which the club's hierarchy would have been methodically planning. This is both an ending and a beginning for the club, with Iraola leaving behind not just league-high finishes and improved results in general, but a cultural shift in how the team plays and competes.

The challenge now is ensuring that his legacy is not a fleeting moment, but the foundation for sustained progress in the Premier League.

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We asked for your thoughts on Bournemouth announcing that Andoni Iraola will be leaving the club at the end of the season.

Here are some of your comments:

Charl: Andoni, thank you. I've been an avid supporter of Bournemouth since my first game in 1966 and this is, without exception, our finest period. You proved that playing the ball forward is the way to win against the top clubs. Now we must not go backwards off the pitch, we need a proven coach such as Steve Holland.

James: Sad day, he has done amazing things for us. Could do worse than Inigo Perez as his replacement to continue playing in the same style. Mind you, De Zerbi ought to be free in a few games' time.

Leon: Gutted! That's the only word that described how I felt on getting this news. The best up-and-coming manager in the country, maybe even Europe, and little old Bournemouth had him. So sad, I don't know who can replace him, but our recruitment team is great, so let's trust them and get behind the whole team.

Wing: Gutted, gutted, gutted! From the very first game when I could see what Andoni was doing and the team started to imprint themselves in a 0-0 home draw against Chelsea, to the incredible height of winning the second Premier League game in a row at the Emirates. Unbeaten runs and all, he took our small club to cosmic heights. I will never be thankful enough of Andoni! Go and do it at a huge football club now - you deserve it, gaffer!

Malcolm: Absolutely gutted to be honest. I would have liked him to sign another two-year deal but I guess he has family to think of and I believe he will head back to Spain. A big, big thank you, Andoni for taking us to the levels achieved over the time you were here. We have seen some awesome games and certainly a lot of chaotic football. A sad day for the club but as our motto says, 'Together anything is possible'.

Dom: Gutted that Iraola is leaving the club. Would love us to appoint Filipe Luis. He was brilliant at Flamengo and I think he would be perfect for us.

Jason H: He's been a great manager for Bournemouth - it's been an exhilarating couple of years. Such pragmatic and positive football. I wish him all the best. I just hope he doesn't go to Palace!

Peter: Straight swap then - Iraola to Newcastle and Howe (back) to Bournemouth?

Prudent Nsengiyumva
BBC Sport journalist

Andoni Iraola has delivered Bournemouth's strongest managerial return in the Premier League.

His points-per-game ratio and win percentage both rank highest among Cherries managers in the top flight, above what Eddie Howe managed during his longer tenure and the shorter spells of Scott Parker and Gary O'Neil.

His win percentage of 35.2% exceeds all previous Bournemouth top-flight spells.

The improvement is modest but meaningful in context. Some previous Bournemouth sides were largely built to survive in the Premier League, often spending extended periods defending deep and without the ball.

Under the Spanish coach, results have ticked up alongside a clear stylistic shift, with Bournemouth playing more proactively and assertively than at any previous point in their Premier League history.

Andoni Iraola says he will always have "fantastic memories" of his three seasons at Bournemouth but the end of the season is the "right moment to step away" from his role in charge of the Cherries.

"It has been an honour to manage AFC Bournemouth and I am proud of what we have achieved together," said Iraola in a statement on the club website, external confirming his summer exit.

"I'm thankful to the players and staff that I've worked with, as well as Bill [Foley, chairman], 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.

"I feel this is the right moment for me to step away, but I will always carry fantastic memories of this club."

Foley added: "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 AFC 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."

Nizaar Kinsella
Football reporter

Image source, Getty Images

Bournemouth moved heaven and earth to convince Andoni Iraola to stay on as manager but were ultimately unable to reach an agreement.

For 15 months, senior figures at the club held both formal and informal discussions with Iraola about what it would take for him to remain in the role.

It was not about money, nor was there any frustration with the club's sporting direction on the south coast.

The feeling was that Iraola wanted to delay his decision for as long as possible, as he had done at previous clubs. He was also known to be placing significant weight on his family's wishes, with growing links to the vacant post at Athletic Club in his native Basque Country.

Iraola, for those unfamiliar with his playing career, is regarded as one of the top 10 greatest players in Athletic Club's history. The Bilbao-based club are well financed, despite operating a long-standing policy of only selecting local players.

It is a blow for the Cherries, but there are no hard feelings towards Iraola, given the close personal relationships that exist at all levels of the club.

Furthermore, Bournemouth have had ample time to plan for his succession knowing his contract was running out and this was the possible outcome of the painstaking time taken to make his final call.

• Let us know how you're feeling about Iraola's exit

Sami Mokbel and Nizaar Kinsella
BBC Sport

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Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola will leave the club this summer.

The Spaniard joined the club in 2023, replacing then head coach Gary O'Neil.

But his contract expires this summer and sources have told BBC Sport that talks over a new deal were unsuccessful.

Bournemouth had been determined to keep Iraola at the club but were unable to reach an agreement with the 43-year-old.

It means the Spaniard, one of the most highly-rated coaches in Europe, will leave the Cherries for free at the end of the campaign.

Sources close to the matter have told BBC Sport that Iraola has communicated to Bournemouth that he has not finalised his next move despite talk of a return to Spanish side Athletic Bilbao.

Iraola spent 12 years at the Basque club as a player, making over 400 appearances for the club.

His family's desire to return to Spain is understood to be among the factors Iraola has considered when coming to his decision.

• Let us know how you're feeling about Iraola's exit

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Tom Jordan
Fan writer

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When Bournemouth brought in Alex Scott from Bristol City in 2023, it felt like it could be a real statement signing. It was clear that this wasn't just a talented youngster, but a player with the tools to develop into at the very least a well-established Premier League midfielder - and boy has he!

Before his move to the Cherries, Scott had already built a reputation as one of England's most exciting young midfielders, a player many that believed had a remarkably high ceiling from the off.

This season, in particular, has felt like a real turning point for Scott. After an injury-disrupted first year or so at the club, 2025-26 definitely feels like the campaign where he has truly arrived.

He has become a near ever-present in a competitive midfield area for the Cherries, playing over 2,000 league minutes and establishing himself as one of the first names on the teamsheet.

Despite his age, Scott always plays with composure well beyond his years, showing an ability to receive the ball under pressure, glide past opponents and carry possession through midfield with purpose.

What has elevated him even further is how he's managing to influence games beyond just the raw numbers. While his return of goals and assists may remain somewhat modest, his overall performance level has been consistently high, with strong match ratings and underlying metrics that highlight his consistent contribution to the team.

Alex isn't just fitting into the Premier League but he's now shaping games within it and becoming one of the most impressive midfielders in the top flight. England and Thomas Tuchel may have lots of options to consider, but there is no doubt for me that Alex would add something to the current England group.

Keep a seat for him on the plane I say!

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Andoni Iraola's future has dominated headlines for the last few months with no clarity from either Bournemouth or the man himself over whether he will renew his contract, which expires at the end of the season.

Speaking on the Cherries Unpicked podcast, former Bournemouth midfielder Joe Partington says he still has "hope" that Iraola will decide to stay at the Vitality Stadium beyond this season, despite not committing his future yet.

"The conversations would certainly have happened and if you were going to [sign a contract], by now surely you would have.

"I still hold out hope because he's not said he's not going to stay. It's not over until the fat lady sings, I suppose, and the Bournemouth fans will hold out hope because they've not had any news that it could still mean it's positive. I think in these situations, historically, no news is bad news."

When asked about the Bournemouth boss being linked to Premier League rivals, Partington said: "They're in direct competition with those clubs. The Fulhams, the Crystal Palaces, the Brightons, for example, are the clubs that are in that bracket that are hoping to achieve consistent European qualification in the Premier League.

"They find good players, they sell their players for more and Bournemouth are very much in that bracket. And they're very much, off the back of this result, in the conversation for a European place, which would be epic."

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Nizaar Kinsella
Football reporter

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Bournemouth defender Marcos Senesi is increasingly exploring his options for a move to a Premier League rival.

The 28-year-old is out of contract at the end of the season, meaning he has been permitted to speak to clubs in Europe about a potential free transfer since 1 January.

However, several European clubs, including reportedly Juventus, have shown serious interest without yet agreeing a pre-contract deal.

This has led to renewed openness from Senesi's camp to consider a move within the Premier League, with Chelsea, Manchester United and relegation-threatened Tottenham also linked.

Blues boss Liam Rosenior has also hinted at adding a more physical defender to his squad in the summer and it is understood that he isn't the right option for the world champions' requirements.

Sources at Bournemouth expect Senesi to leave on a free transfer, despite the club having made three contract offers in an attempt to keep him.

He remains a valuable member of head coach Andoni Iraola's side and started the 2-1 win at Arsenal on Saturday afternoon.

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We asked for your thoughts after Saturday's Premier League game between Arsenal and Bournemouth.

Here are some of your comments:

Arsenal fans

David: I'm afraid this is the norm from Arsenal. They never fail to disappoint and frustrate. I can't understand how a team can go from brilliant to pathetic in such a short time. I'm a lifelong Arsenal fan and I guess should be used to this by now.

Steve: Sadly, I feel it'll be another trophyless season for Arsenal. Our team don't look confident and look devoid of ideas. We've lost that cutting edge and even our set pieces seem fruitless now.

Mike: I'm a lifelong Arsenal fan. Yes we have injuries, but that is no excuse. The players out on the pitch are good enough to win any game. Now playing with so much fear we seem to have forgotten what got us to the top in the first place! Start playing like you want to win the game rather than playing like you are afraid to lose.

John: I was at the game. It was a tactical nightmare for Arteta. No balls through the middle and the wide men in space were left hopelessly waiting. Worrying times. But, there's still hope. We have the squad, but it all falls back on how Arteta can react. I'm not convinced.

Toby: Once again, capitulation, across the board. Being an Arsenal fan is to know heartbreak.

Bournemouth fans

Simon: Very strong performance, great to see Cherries playing after so long it seems and getting more than one point. Deserved win because the press was so dominant and effective. Tactically Arteta was outplayed by Iraola. Unbeaten run is incredible and furthered again. UP THE CHERRIES.

Bob: A three week break towards the end of season is a real bonus. Tough matches against top teams is a real drain on physical strength with a tired Arsenal performance against a fresh Cherries. Can we make it 13 unbeaten?

Nigel: This was no fluke, no hit and run. We were the better team and looked more dangerous going forward. Alex Scott was immense - again! Proud to be a Cherry!

Malcolm: What a solid team performance from the Cherries. A suberb winner from Alex Scott after some lovely play from David Brooks. Obviously the talk will be about how poor Arsenal were, but the truth is they didn't have the same passion and energy as a Bournemouth team on a 12-game unbeaten run. Proud to be a Cherries fan.

Sara Jane: Bournemouth were brilliant. Just praying our manager will stay.

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The Telegraph's Luke Edwards says Bournemouth were "absolutely spot on" in their impressive away win over league leaders Arsenal and the job head coach Andoni Iraola is doing is "truly remarkable".

The win at the Emirates Stadium saw the Cherries extend their unbeaten run in the Premier League to 12 games (five wins, seven draws) - their longest ever in the competition.

Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live's Football Daily, Edwards said: "What Iraola has done, to lose your back four last summer and they also had a bad run this season, a really tough run and you're thinking Iraola hasn't signed a contract. He is going to be very much in demand in the summer because of the job he has done and it is a truly remarkable job.

"They were absolutely spot on. They played on the fear and anxiety of Arsenal because they got up into their faces really quickly. They closed them down. They didn't give them any respite. No easy passes. They kept the constant pressure on and that played on the vulnerability of Arsenal as well, mentally, I think.

"They have been brilliant for a number of years, a club that has punched above their weight for a number of years. I just wonder about the manager at the end of the season. There's going to be changes in the Premier League. He is going to be in demand because of the excellent work he's done."

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Pundits Alan Shearer and Danny Murphy join host Kelly Cates to bring you the action and talking points from Friday and Saturday's Premier League fixtures.

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And listen back to full match commentaries on BBC Sounds:

• Brentford 2-2 Everton

• Burnley 0-2 Brighton

• Liverpool 2-0 Fulham

Jordan Clark and former Bournemouth midfielder Joe Partington reflect on a huge win for the Cherries at Premier League leaders Arsenal.

Listen below or on BBC Sounds here - and don't forget to subscribe to get each episode into your My Sounds feed.

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