Andoni Iraola Linked to Tottenham Job Despite Possible Bournemouth Extension
Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola remains a potential candidate for the Tottenham Hotspur managerial position this summer, despite reports suggesting he is open to extending his tenure at the Vitality Stadium.
Tottenham, who have reached the Europa League semi-finals, are reportedly planning to part ways with Ange Postecoglou even if he guides them to European silverware this season. According to Football Insider (18 April), Bournemouth have offered Iraola a new contract in an attempt to dissuade him from taking the job in north London.
Iraola’s Current Situation at Bournemouth
The 42-year-old manager, whose current contract with Bournemouth runs until June 2026, has been performing admirably on the south coast. Under his guidance, the Cherries are currently eighth in the Premier League and vying for European football—a stark contrast to Tottenham’s disappointing campaign, which has left them languishing in 15th place.
Despite his achievements with Bournemouth, finance expert Stefan Borson believes it would be surprising if Iraola turned down an offer to manage Tottenham. Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Borson remarked, “I’d be staggered if Iraola rejected the Spurs job this summer, regardless of Bournemouth’s success. The opportunity to manage a club like Tottenham doesn’t come around often.”
Postecoglou’s Future in Doubt
Tottenham’s season has been far from smooth, and speculation over Ange Postecoglou’s future has intensified in recent weeks. Borson suggested that even a Europa League triumph might not save the Australian manager. “We’ll know soon enough what’s happening with Postecoglou,” he said. “Even if he wins the Europa League, I still expect Spurs to make a change. They seem set on a fresh start.”
Borson also acknowledged the possibility that Iraola might not be Tottenham’s top target. “It’s possible that Iraola has been told he’s not the primary candidate, which might explain why news of him staying at Bournemouth has surfaced. But if Spurs come calling, it’s hard to imagine him saying no.”
Tottenham’s Broader Plans
In addition to managerial changes, Tottenham are reportedly preparing to bolster their squad. According to Football Insider (17 April), the club is tracking Gambian teenage sensation Gibril Sima. The 17-year-old, who currently plays for Dutch Lions in the Gambian top flight, has drawn comparisons to former Arsenal striker Thierry Henry due to his playing style. Spurs face stiff competition from other European clubs to secure his signature.
Uncertain Times Ahead
While Bournemouth’s offer of a contract extension signals their intent to keep Iraola, the allure of managing a club with Tottenham’s profile could prove difficult to resist. For Spurs, a managerial shakeup seems inevitable, as they aim to recover from their underwhelming season and regain their status as a top-six Premier League side.
The coming weeks will likely provide clarity on Iraola’s future and whether he will take on the challenge of leading Tottenham into a new era.
