Andoni Iraola has responded publicly to growing speculation linking him with potential moves to Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United, speaking at length about his future in an interview with Spanish newspaper Marca.
The AFC Bournemouth head coach has been repeatedly mentioned as a managerial target in recent months, with earlier reports in Spain also linking him to Athletic Club. Marca’s latest interview revisits that speculation directly, placing Tottenham and Manchester United at the centre of the discussion.
Premier League jobs under scrutiny
Marca specifically referenced reports connecting Iraola to Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United and Chelsea. The latter now appear irrelevant after Chelsea replaced Enzo Maresca with Liam Rosenior earlier this month.
Tottenham, meanwhile, appointed Thomas Frank ahead of the current campaign, but a return of seven wins from 21 league games has left Spurs 14th in the table. Should results fail to improve, scrutiny around Frank’s position is expected to intensify.
Manchester United are in a different phase altogether. The club recently parted ways with Ruben Amorim and appointed Michael Carrick as interim head coach until the end of the season. With a permanent appointment yet to be finalised, Iraola’s name has surfaced as a possible long-term option.
Iraola plays down exit talk
Asked directly about Tottenham and Manchester United, Iraola was keen to stress his satisfaction with life on the south coast. With just six months remaining on his contract at the Vitality Stadium, his comments were measured rather than evasive.
“I’m very happy at Bournemouth, I’ve always said that.
For managers, the contract isn’t that important. I believe that trust should be renewed every year. If you’re happy with me and I’m happy with you, why not stay for another year?” — Andoni Iraola, Marca
He added that contractual security alone would never be enough to keep him in a role, underlining a philosophy rooted in alignment rather than obligation.
“I wouldn’t want to stay somewhere simply because I have a signed contract. Once we achieve our objective, we’ll meet and see how to approach the next season and whether or not to continue.
Staying here is a good option.” — Andoni Iraola, Marca
‘Rock & roll football’ explained
Marca also explored the tactical identity that has earned Iraola admirers across Europe. Under his guidance, Bournemouth have repeatedly troubled elite opponents, prompting questions about how his teams sustain such high-intensity football.
Iraola rejected the idea that his approach is rigid, instead highlighting adaptability and player buy-in as key factors.
“It’s not just about how you want to play. You depend on the opponent. Teams that consider themselves better usually accept more open matches, and we don’t mind that.” — Andoni Iraola, Marca
On convincing players to maintain relentless intensity, the Spaniard was clear that culture is built daily.
“They have to get used to living like this every day. Training and playing like this to get into the rhythm.
When players see there’s a reward for that work, they usually buy into it.” — Andoni Iraola, Marca
The newspaper also referenced the label often attached to his teams — “rock & roll football”.
“Here they also call it organised chaos. I understand what they mean, and in some ways I see myself reflected in it.
I always say I want my teams to be good, but if they’re also entertaining, all the better.” — Andoni Iraola, Marca
Timing fuels speculation
For Iraola to grant such an expansive interview at a moment when multiple Premier League benches remain unstable has not gone unnoticed. Discussing philosophy, future planning and high-profile roles so openly inevitably invites interpretation.
Whether coincidental or calculated, the conversation has ensured his name remains firmly in circulation as clubs assess their next managerial moves.
Key Insights
- Andoni Iraola has been linked with Tottenham and Manchester United.
- The Bournemouth coach is in the final six months of his contract.
- He insists he is happy at Bournemouth and open to staying.
- Iraola emphasises trust and alignment over contract length.
- His high-intensity style continues to attract elite interest.
What’s Next
Much will depend on how Bournemouth finish the season and whether Tottenham or Manchester United formalise their interest. Contract talks at the Vitality Stadium are likely once objectives become clearer, while managerial uncertainty elsewhere could keep Iraola’s name in circulation well into the spring.
Should Andoni Iraola commit to Bournemouth’s long-term project, or is his “rock & roll” style ready for a step up at a Premier League giant?
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