According to British media reports, Andoni Iraola could be set to manage a club outside the English Premier League next season. This potential career move comes as a massive surprise to football pundits and fans alike across Europe.
The highly-rated Spanish tactician recently announced his departure from Bournemouth at the end of the current campaign. This followed a remarkably stellar tenure during which he successfully guided the Vitality Stadium club to its highest-ever historical finish in the Premier League table.
Throughout the season, Iraola had been heavily linked with managerial vacancies at several Premier League giants, including Manchester United, Chelsea, and Liverpool. However, those clubs ultimately opted to sign other managers, leaving the Spaniard available on the market.
Recent reports now indicate that Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen have emerged as the frontrunners in securing Iraola’s signature. The German club is eager to bring the “Die Werkself” back to the podium and challenge for major silverware once again.
The Leverkusen board has reportedly decided to sack current manager Kasper Hjulmand. They are actively searching for a dynamic coach capable of building upon the foundational success established by Xabi Alonso two years ago, especially since Leverkusen mathematically failed to qualify for next season’s UEFA Champions League.
Given his impressive track record at Bournemouth, Iraola stands out as the ideal candidate. The German club’s hierarchy specifically prefers a Spanish manager who shares a tactical philosophy similar to Alonso’s. Interestingly, Girona’s Míchel was also high on their wishlist, but his recent agreement to join Ajax ruled him out of the running.
Meanwhile, Crystal Palace have reportedly launched an official offer for Iraola to replace Oliver Glasner. Despite the interest from London, the manager has yet to make his final decision. While British reports suggest he prefers staying in England—specifically moving to London—the allure of a project like Leverkusen could completely alter his plans.
