Iraola in advanced talks with Bayer Leverkusen as Crystal Palace push for decision

Andoni Iraola is closing in on his next managerial role, with Bayer Leverkusen and Crystal Palace locked in a race for the 43-year-old Spaniard following his departure from Bournemouth at the end of the 2024-25 season. Reports from talkSPORT indicate Iraola is in advanced talks with Leverkusen, while BBC Sport says Palace are pushing for an answer before the weekend is out.

Iraola announced in April that he would leave Bournemouth when the season concluded, signing off with an 18-game unbeaten run that lifted the Cherries to sixth place and a Europa League berth. That form made him one of the most sought-after managers in European football.

Crystal Palace moved quickly once Oliver Glasner stepped down after guiding the Eagles to the Conference League title. The south London club want Iraola to stay in the Premier League, and transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano has reported that remaining in England is a priority for the Spaniard.

Leverkusen, however, have emerged as a genuine rival for his signature. The Bundesliga club endured a chaotic post-Xabi Alonso period, with Erik ten Hag lasting just three games before Kasper Hjulmand took over and steered them to sixth place. Hjulmand remains in post for now, but Leverkusen are clearly looking to make a longer-term appointment.

One factor that levels the playing field between the two clubs is European competition: both Palace and Leverkusen — along with Bournemouth — will compete in the Europa League next season.

Iraola met with Leverkusen sporting director Marco Rose for two hours earlier this week, and comments he made in April may hint at where his sympathies lie. “Marco Rose’s Gladbach was one of my favourite teams,” he said at the time. “I really like German football because as a spectator I love it when things happen. Every player has to do more and more roles because everyone on the pitch is attacking and defending.”

Speaking after Bournemouth’s final match of the season, Iraola was careful not to reveal his hand. “I don’t know where I am going,” he said. “I think it is a moment where we will have to take our time and make decisions. Obviously it’s not going to be long because teams have to sign managers. Now is the moment where we will take decisions.”