Andoni Iraola Leads Race to Become Athletic Club's Next Manager

Andoni Iraola, currently managing Bournemouth, is strongly linked with a return to Spanish football this summer. The former Rayo Vallecano boss is now a leading candidate to take the helm at Athletic Club, a team he previously represented as a player.

Ernesto Valverde recently confirmed his departure from Athletic Club at the end of the current season, concluding a highly successful third tenure. His achievements during this period include guiding the team back to the Champions League, reaching the Europa League semi-finals, and securing a Copa del Rey title. The club is now actively searching for his successor.

Andoni Iraola Emerges as Favorite for Athletic Club Role

According to multiple reports, including those from TalkSport and Matteo Moretto, Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola is the prime candidate to succeed Valverde. Sources suggest that both Athletic's squad and sporting department view him as the ideal choice. While Bournemouth had hoped to retain Iraola, who is out of contract this summer, they acknowledge the strong appeal of a return to San Mamés for him. Iraola has also reportedly garnered interest from other Spanish giants, Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid.

Other Potential Candidates for the Managerial Position

Several other names are being considered for the Athletic Club hot seat. Marca suggests Iñigo Pérez, a former Athletic assistant and current Rayo Vallecano manager, whose contract also expires this summer and who previously played for the club. Mauricio Pochettino, a well-known manager with La Liga experience, is another high-profile coach whose representatives have reportedly expressed interest. Claudio Giraldez, Celta Vigo's coach, is being lauded for his work and strong youth development record, making him an attractive prospect for Athletic. Diario AS also mentions former Borussia Dortmund manager Edin Terzic as an option favored by President Jon Uriarte, given his history with Athletic's academy and his success leading Dortmund to a Champions League final and a German Cup victory.