Sky Sports News understands Marco Rose is the frontrunner to succeed Andoni Iraola as Bournemouth head coach.
Bournemouth have drawn up a three-man shortlist that includes Ipswich boss Kieran McKenna, but sources say Rose — available since his March 2025 sacking by RB Leipzig — is currently the leading candidate. McKenna remains focused on Ipswich’s promotion push, which could delay any rapid appointment if their season extends into the play-offs.
Iñigo Pérez, Iraola’s former assistant, is another coach admired by the club, but he is not believed to be on the current three-man list. Pérez did travel with Iraola to Bournemouth previously but did not remain due to work visa issues.
Iraola joined the Cherries in June 2023, replacing Gary O’Neil, and delivered a club-record points haul and a ninth-placed Premier League finish in his first season. With his contract expiring this summer, Bournemouth attempted to agree fresh terms but have accepted his decision to move on. The club confirmed his departure in a statement after their recent 2-1 win at Premier League leaders Arsenal. Iraola expressed pride in what he and the club achieved and thanked players, staff, chairman Bill Foley and the supporters. He has been linked with jobs at Athletic Bilbao and Manchester United.
Sky Sports News reporter Mark McAdam notes the scale of the task in replacing a manager who, over three seasons, raised expectations at the club and left them potentially on the verge of European qualification. The key name to watch is Rose. The 49-year-old was dismissed by Leipzig following an underwhelming league and Champions League campaign, but he arrives with silverware and European experience. Observers say Rose’s coaching principles — described as prioritising emotion, hunger and an active approach, with aggressive pressing, strong aerial competitiveness and quick, direct football — are broadly similar to Iraola’s style.
Bournemouth would prefer to conclude their managerial appointment within a week or two to begin planning for next season, including any potential European fixtures and a renewed push for major honours. The timing and McKenna’s current commitments at Ipswich are likely to be key factors in how quickly that can happen.