Athletic Club president Jon Uriarte is reportedly eyeing Andoni Iraola as a potential successor to Ernesto Valverde, whose future at San Mamés is in doubt after signs of “managerial fatigue,” according to Sport.
The Spanish outlet reports that Valverde — a club legend — could step down at the end of the 2025/26 season, prompting Athletic to quietly line up alternatives.
Among those, Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola is said to be at the top of the shortlist, with the Basque coach continuing to earn admirers in both Spain and England.
Athletic Club admire Iraola
Iraola, who spent 12 years as a player at Athletic Club, remains a fan favourite in Bilbao. Since moving into management, he’s developed a reputation for his tactical sharpness and progressive football, notably guiding Rayo Vallecano to a top-half La Liga finish before joining Bournemouth in 2023.
Sport report that Athletic’s president, Jon Uriarte, “has him in his sights” as part of long-term planning. The only stumbling block is financial — the Bournemouth boss currently has an €11 million release clause, though his contract expires in June 2026, potentially easing negotiations next summer.
“Andoni Iraola is admired by the board and the fans. He represents the identity and values of the club. His name is one of the most frequently mentioned when supporters discuss possible successors to Valverde,” writes *Marca*.
The report adds that Athletic want to be “ahead of the issue,” planning early in case Valverde decides to step aside.
Two favourites emerge for San Mamés job
Alongside Iraola, Rayo Vallecano boss Iñigo Pérez is also being considered. Both are former Athletic players, both have strong managerial credentials, and crucially, both will see their contracts run out at the end of the season.
Athletic are said to view them as “realistic, credible options” who fit the club’s long-standing tradition of hiring managers with deep Basque ties.
Iraola’s success in the Premier League — particularly in helping Bournemouth stabilise and play expansive football — has strengthened his standing back home. Despite the Cherries’ mixed results this campaign, his work continues to be recognised for its ambition and tactical identity.
What’s next for Valverde and Athletic
Valverde, 61, has yet to make any public decision about his future. While Athletic are performing steadily in La Liga, Spanish media suggest fatigue from years of top-flight management is beginning to take its toll.
If he decides to move on next summer, Athletic want a smooth succession plan — and Iraola appears to tick every box.
However, with Premier League clubs also monitoring the Bournemouth manager, competition for his signature could be fierce.
Key Insights
- Athletic Club president Jon Uriarte reportedly wants Andoni Iraola as Valverde’s successor.
- Ernesto Valverde is said to be “showing signs of fatigue” and may step down next summer.
- Iraola’s €11m release clause could complicate matters, but his contract expires in 2026.
- Iñigo Pérez of Rayo Vallecano is also on Athletic’s shortlist.
- Iraola’s work at Bournemouth has further enhanced his reputation across Europe.
Our View
Andoni Iraola has always seemed destined to return to Athletic Club in some capacity. His coaching philosophy, player development track record, and deep roots in Bilbao make him the ideal candidate to carry on Valverde’s legacy when the time comes.
Still, with Premier League clubs reportedly circling, Athletic may need to move decisively if they want to bring one of their own back home.
What’s Next
Bournemouth are next in action on Sunday, 2 November, when they play away against Manchester City at the Etihad in the Premier League.
Meanwhile, in Spain, all eyes will remain on Ernesto Valverde’s decision regarding his Athletic Club future — a call that could trigger one of the summer’s biggest managerial moves.
👉 Could Andoni Iraola be set for an emotional San Mamés return in 2026?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 30 Oct 2025 13:26
Stunning how he's doing! Would be pity for Bournemouth to lose him
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