Andoni Iraola is deciding between Crystal Palace and Bayer Leverkusen after leaving Bournemouth, with the Spanish manager leading the Cherries to sixth place and Europa League qualification before his departure
Felix Keith
12:45, 29 May 2026Updated 12:54, 29 May 2026
Andoni Iraola had been tipped to replace Arne Slot at Liverpool
Andoni Iraola had been tipped to replace Arne Slot at Liverpool(Image: Getty Images)
Andoni Iraola is preparing to choose between Crystal Palace and Bayer Leverkusen following an intensive period of negotiations.
The Spanish coach has been in considerable demand after an outstanding stint with Bournemouth and is nearing the point at which he must decide. He's been touted as a long-term replacement for under-pressure Liverpool boss Arne Slot in recent days, but it appears Iraola won't be heading to Anfield.
Iraola confirmed in April that he would be departing Bournemouth at the conclusion of the season. He bowed out in impressive fashion, steering the Cherries to sixth place and a Europa League berth courtesy of an 18-game unbeaten run.
Palace wasted little time in moving for Iraola, putting forward a proposal for him to succeed Oliver Glasner. The latter departed Palace after guiding the Eagles to the Conference League title, and the club is keen for Iraola to remain in the Premier League this summer.
Nevertheless, Leverkusen has emerged as a rival for his signature. The German club has endured a turbulent period, with Erik ten Hag lasting just three matches as Xabi Alonso's successor before Kasper Hjulmand stepped in to guide the club to sixth in the Bundesliga.
Hjulmand currently remains at the helm, but talkSPORT reports that Iraola is in "advanced talks" to take over.
Marco Rose is replacing Iraola at Bournemouth
Marco Rose is replacing Iraola at Bournemouth(Image: Getty Images)
BBC Sport has indicated that Palace is seeking a response from the 43-year-old before the weekend is out, while Fabrizio Romano suggests that remaining in the Premier League is a "priority" for Iraola. Both Palace and Leverkusen — alongside Bournemouth — will compete in the Europa League next season, placing them on equal footing.
Iraola spent two hours in discussion with Marco Rose earlier this week, and his response when questioned about his Bournemouth successor in April might provide insight into his future plans.
"Marco Rose's Gladbach was one of my favorite teams," Iraola said. "I really like German football because, as a spectator, I love it when things happen.
"It is not a case of you attack for two minutes, and then it is my turn. Every player has to do more and more roles because everyone on the pitch is attacking and defending. I like that football where the player does everything."
However, speaking to Match of the Day following the final match of the campaign, Iraola said: "I don't know where I am going. I think it is a moment where we will have to take our time and make decisions.
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"Obviously, it's not going to be long because teams have to sign managers. Now is the moment where we will take decisions."
When asked who would be most difficult to bid farewell to, Iraola said: "The people. I see these guys every day. My every day has been so good. I have enjoyed this so much, and it is not easy.
"When you go to work with a smile, even in moments where results are maybe not as good, it is more a challenge. The atmosphere in the club is so positive. The club is growing. Now we are getting incredible results, it is good always to work in this kind of environment."