Bournemouth managerial plan discussions have surfaced in unexpected fashion, after comments made live on Brazilian television suggested the club are preparing Vasco Botelho as a potential successor to Andoni Iraola.
During an ESPN Brazil debate focused on Atlético Mineiro’s search for a new head coach, journalist Bruno Andrade revealed that Botelho was among the names approached by the Brazilian side. The more significant detail, however, concerned Bournemouth’s long-term thinking.
According to Andrade, Botelho is viewed internally as a future option at the Vitality Stadium and is being “prepared” with that possibility in mind.
Vasco Botelho identified as possible Iraola successor
Speaking on air, Andrade explained that Botelho, currently in charge of Moreirense in Portugal, was contacted by Atlético Mineiro but ultimately did not advance in discussions.
He added that Moreirense’s partnership with Bournemouth plays a role in the situation and that the Premier League club see Botelho as a potential manager within “one or two seasons”.
Andrade further claimed that once the Brazilian club made contact, Botelho informed Moreirense, his representatives and Bournemouth. The response from the English side, according to the journalist, was that their project for him in England “remains secure”.
There is no suggestion of an imminent change regarding Iraola’s position. However, the comments indicate structured succession planning behind the scenes.
Career trajectory strengthens Bournemouth managerial plan narrative
Botelho’s rise in Portuguese football provides context for why he is being discussed in these terms.
He began coaching in the youth ranks at Estoril before stepping into senior management with União de Leiria during the 2022/23 season, winning the Portuguese third division title. In 2024/25, he guided FC Alverca to promotion from the second tier into the Primeira Liga, enhancing his reputation as one of Portugal’s most promising young managers.
His current role at Moreirense continues that upward trajectory.
Based on recent seasons we’ve covered, Bournemouth’s recruitment strategy has often focused on emerging profiles rather than established names. Iraola himself arrived with a progressive reputation built in Spain. This suggests the club value coaching development as much as immediate pedigree.
However, it remains too early to interpret this as a signal of change. Iraola remains in charge, and there has been no official confirmation from Bournemouth regarding any succession agreement.
Key Insights
- Vasco Botelho was approached by Atlético Mineiro, per ESPN Brazil
- Bournemouth reportedly reassured him that their long-term project remains intact
- Botelho is said to be viewed as a possible future successor to Andoni Iraola
- His recent promotions in Portugal have elevated his reputation
- No immediate managerial change at Bournemouth is indicated
What’s Next
In the short term, nothing changes at the Vitality Stadium. Iraola continues to lead the first team, and Botelho remains at Moreirense. Over the next one to two seasons, Botelho’s progress in Portugal will likely determine whether Bournemouth formalise any succession plan. Much will depend on Iraola’s trajectory and contractual situation, as well as Botelho’s continued development at senior level.
Is long-term succession planning the smartest move in the Premier League, or does it risk undermining the current manager?
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