Exclusive: What Andoni Iraola has told Bournemouth as Tottenham consider him to replace Postecoglou
Tottenham Hotspur managerial target Andoni Iraola has expressed his desire to delay committing to his future with Bournemouth, as revealed exclusively by TBR Football.
Iraola, who took over from Gary O’Neil at Bournemouth in a surprising move in 2023, has transformed the club into one of the most impressive teams in the Premier League after a slow start. Bournemouth, currently sitting seventh in the league table, have exceeded all expectations this season under Iraola’s leadership, which has not gone unnoticed in the footballing world.
Bournemouth’s remarkable rise in the league has been met with admiration, but it has also drawn interest in Iraola from other clubs, including Tottenham Hotspur.
Bournemouth are eager to secure Iraola on a new contract, but they have yet to initiate talks with their highly regarded head coach. Historically, Iraola has avoided committing to long-term contracts, but this situation might be different.
Despite discussions with his camp before Christmas, the Spaniard has insisted on focusing on the season without any distractions. However, Bournemouth remain concerned about the growing interest in their manager, particularly from Tottenham.
Tottenham have conducted thorough research on Iraola as they evaluate potential replacements for Ange Postecoglou. Sources confirm that Iraola was even considered by Manchester City as a potential successor to Pep Guardiola before the latter extended his contract.
Liverpool also deliberated on Iraola as a replacement for Jurgen Klopp in the past, but it was deemed too early in his managerial career at the time. Bournemouth, confident in their support for Iraola since his appointment in 2023 after leaving Rayo Vallecano, hope to convince him to commit to the club.
The comparison between Iraola and Postecoglou highlights the Spaniard’s credentials. Both managers joined the Premier League in 2023, with Iraola inheriting a team that narrowly avoided relegation, while Postecoglou took over a struggling Tottenham side.
Although Postecoglou had a stronger debut season, Iraola’s performance this season has been exceptional, especially considering the injuries that have plagued his squad.
While Postecoglou’s Tottenham employs an all-out attacking style, Iraola has cultivated a more balanced and effective approach at Bournemouth, earning him recognition as one of the most promising managers in the league.
Statistically, Iraola’s Premier League record closely mirrors Postecoglou’s. Postecoglou has slightly better numbers overall, with 28 wins, 9 draws, and 25 losses in 62 games, averaging 1.50 points per game. He has also overseen 122 goals scored and 98 conceded during his tenure.
Meanwhile, Iraola’s record includes 24 wins, 16 draws, and 22 losses in the same number of games, averaging 1.41 points per game with 95 goals scored and 95 conceded. Despite the narrow difference, Iraola’s ability to adapt and excel with limited resources and a more balanced approach has set him apart.
Bournemouth’s style of play under Iraola has garnered praise for its balance and effectiveness, contrasting with Tottenham’s attacking philosophy.
This tactical versatility, coupled with Iraola’s success in stabilizing and elevating Bournemouth, makes him an attractive candidate for bigger clubs. The question remains whether Iraola would consider leaving Bournemouth mid-season should Tottenham part ways with Postecoglou and offer him the managerial position.
For Bournemouth, retaining Iraola is a priority, but the allure of managing a club like Tottenham could be tempting for the Spaniard. The situation underscores Iraola’s rising stock in football management and the challenge for Bournemouth to secure his long-term commitment amidst interest from top clubs.
As the season progresses, Iraola’s decisions will significantly impact both Bournemouth’s ambitions and Tottenham’s managerial plans.