Marco Rose is believed to be the frontrunner to replace Andoni Iraola as Bournemouth head coach, Sky Sports News understands.
The club have a three-man shortlist that includes Ipswich boss Kieran McKenna, with Bournemouth keen to appoint a successor quickly after announcing Iraola will leave at the end of his contract. Rose has been available since his sacking by RB Leipzig in March 2025, while McKenna remains focused on Ipswich’s promotion push.
Another figure admired by the club is Iraola’s former assistant Iñigo Pérez, though he is not thought to be on the current three-man list. Pérez did travel with Iraola to Bournemouth previously but did not stay because of work visa issues.
Iraola joined the Cherries in June 2023, replacing Gary O’Neil, and led them to a club-record points tally and a ninth-placed Premier League finish in his first season. With his contract expiring this summer, the club had sought to agree new terms but have accepted his decision to leave. The club confirmed his departure in a statement, and Iraola expressed pride in what he and the club achieved together and gratitude to players, staff, chairman Bill Foley and the fans. He has been linked with Athletic Bilbao and the Manchester United job.
The announcement followed Bournemouth’s notable 2-1 win at Premier League leaders Arsenal.
Analysis from Sky Sports News reporter Mark McAdam notes the scale of the task replacing Iraola, who over three seasons elevated Bournemouth’s expectations and left them potentially poised for European qualification. The key name to watch is Rose: the 49-year-old was dismissed by RB Leipzig after underperforming in league and Champions League campaigns but brings silverware and Champions League experience. Rose’s described footballing principles — “emotion, hunger and being active,” pressing aggressively, winning aerial duels and playing fast, direct football — are similar to Iraola’s style.
McKenna is respected but the timing is complicated by Ipswich’s promotion bid, which could delay a swift appointment if their season extends via playoffs. Bournemouth would ideally like to conclude the process within a week or two to begin planning for next season, including potential European fixtures and the pursuit of major honours for the club.