Tiago Pinto has described Andoni Iraola as “special” while explaining how the Bournemouth head coach has handled a series of major player sales over the past two seasons.
In an interview with Rivista Undici, Bournemouth’s Managing Director of Professional Football lifted the lid on the internal dynamic at the club and praised Iraola’s response to losing several key players.
Tiago Pinto praises Andoni Iraola after Bournemouth exits
Since arriving on the south coast, Iraola has overseen Bournemouth’s most successful Premier League campaigns. The club set a new points record in 2023/24 and surpassed it again in 2024/25 with 56 points.
However, that progress has come alongside significant departures.
Last summer, Ilya Zabarnyi, Dean Huijsen and Milos Kerkez all left for European heavyweights, while Dango Ouattara secured a £36m move to Brentford. In January, Antoine Semenyo joined Manchester City for a club-record £62.5m.
Further exits are expected, with Marcos Senesi widely linked with a summer departure.
Despite that turnover, Pinto insists Iraola has maintained perspective.
“I’ve worked with many coaches and learned something from all of them,” Pinto said.
“Today I can say that Andoni is different, he’s special. He’s a modern coach, someone who understands all the dynamics of football.”
Context over complaint
Pinto emphasised that the sales were driven by structural realities rather than desire.
“We sold players not because we were happy to sell them, but because there are rules to follow,” he explained.
“A coach other than Andoni might say, ‘They sold all my players.’ He doesn’t.”
Having followed Bournemouth’s evolution under Iraola, the emphasis has consistently been on adaptability and development rather than short-term stability.
| Recent Major Bournemouth Sales | Destination |
|---|---|
| Antoine Semenyo | Manchester City (£62.5m) |
| Dango Ouattara | Brentford (£36m) |
| Milos Kerkez | Liverpool |
| Dean Huijsen | Real Madrid |
| Ilya Zabarnyi | PSG |
source: club-reported transfers – 20 February 2026
While heavy turnover can destabilise teams, Bournemouth have remained competitive, underlining the importance of coherent planning.
However, sustained success in the Premier League often depends on balancing development with retention.
Key Insights
- Pinto calls Iraola “special” and modern.
- Bournemouth have sold several key players for major fees.
- Sales driven by financial and structural realities.
- Iraola has not publicly criticised departures.
What’s Next
Bournemouth continue their push for a top-half finish this season, with Iraola tasked with integrating new faces while maintaining tactical identity.
The summer window may once again test the club’s model, particularly if further high-profile bids arrive.
Can Bournemouth keep progressing while continuing to sell their top talent?
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