Exclusive: Andoni Iraola sack update at Bournemouth
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Exclusive: Andoni Iraola Sack Update at Bournemouth
Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola faces no immediate sack threat despite a prolonged winless streak, according to insiders and experts. The Cherries sit 15th in the Premier League after a 3-2 defeat to Arsenal, extending their winless run to 11 games (5 draws, 6 losses)—their longest in a single top-flight campaign.[1][2][3]
Former Everton and Aston Villa CEO Keith Wyness, speaking to Football Insider, dismissed sack rumors emphatically. "Bournemouth will not be contemplating the immediate future of manager Andoni Iraola despite their poor form," Wyness stated. He praised Iraola as "the right manager for the right club," noting the team has overperformed this season despite losing key players in the summer. Wyness believes a couple of wins could propel them up the table, with owner Bill Foley providing freedom and support.[1]
Analysis from FourFourTwo echoes this, highlighting parallels to Iraola's winless start in 2023 (9 games). Back then, data showed positive underlying metrics, and the club backed him—leading to a strong finish. Recent performances, like four goals at Manchester United and a 2-2 draw at Chelsea, suggest promise amid bad luck, though confidence is low and they struggle against defensive sides.[3]
Compounding challenges is the imminent departure of star winger Antoine Semenyo. Iraola expects the £65m release clause to be triggered by Manchester City, with Semenyo's clash against Tottenham on Wednesday likely his last for Bournemouth. The Ghanaian has 12 goal contributions (9 goals, 3 assists), second only to Erling Haaland and Igor Thiago.[2][4] Iraola remains pragmatic: "I think it could be the last game... but nothing is signed."[2][4] Defender Marcos Senesi may also exit in January after rejecting a contract extension.[1]
Despite speculation linking Iraola to Manchester United,[5] Bournemouth's stability persists. Iraola, wary after past droughts, eyes a contract extension amid recruitment changes, like Richard Hughes' departure to Liverpool.[3]
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