Palace Target Iraola as Glasner Exits Selhurst Park, 2026

Key Points

• Crystal Palace have identified Bournemouth coach Andoni Iraola as their first-choice target to replace Oliver Glasner, who is departing at the end of the 2025-26 season.
• Iraola announced he will leave Bournemouth upon the expiry of his contract this summer, following a successful tenure that includes a 15-match unbeaten run in the Premier League.
• Bournemouth sit competitively in the league table, with potential to qualify for the Champions League for the first time in club history under Iraola.
• Crystal Palace reached the UEFA Conference League final under Glasner, who led them to FA Cup glory last season and the Community Shield this term.
• Chelsea are also interested in Iraola as a candidate for their permanent head coach role after sacking Liam Rosenior, with interim manager Calum McFarlane currently in charge; however, Palace lead the race according to some reports.
• Iraola has previously been linked with Manchester United, though no negotiations have taken place, and he remains open to Premier League opportunities.
• Glasner’s departure stems from a decision made in October 2025, reportedly linked to dissatisfaction with the club’s transfer policy.

Crystal Palace (South London News) May 9, 2026 – Crystal Palace are preparing an ambitious move for Bournemouth coach Andoni Iraola, who is confirmed to depart the Cherries at the end of the season amid interest from multiple Premier League clubs.

Why is Crystal Palace Targeting Andoni Iraola as Glasner’s Replacement?

Crystal Palace have made Andoni Iraola their preferred choice to succeed Oliver Glasner, as reported by Standard Sport.

The Eagles’ chairman Steve Parish has been planning for Glasner’s exit since learning of his decision not to renew his contract as early as October 2025.

Glasner, the 51-year-old Austrian manager, confirmed his departure in January 2026 after guiding Palace to their first major trophy with the 2025 FA Cup win and the subsequent Community Shield. He recently stated in a pre-match press conference ahead of the UEFA Conference League semi-final second leg against Shakhtar Donetsk:

“I made my decision and I have my reasons, but as I’ve always said, we want to end the season in the best possible way — and now we have the chance to do it.”

Palace hold a 3-1 aggregate lead over Shakhtar and could face Strasbourg or Rayo Vallecano in the final on 27 May in Leipzig, which would mark Glasner’s last game in charge. Glasner emphasised focus to his players:

“Now is not the time to get melancholic. It’s about staying focused… don’t do anything for me, do it for yourselves, do it for the club, do it for the fans.”

What Has Andoni Iraola Achieved at Bournemouth?

Andoni Iraola, the 43-year-old Spaniard, will leave Bournemouth at the end of his three-year contract this summer, as officially announced by the club. AFC Bournemouth stated:

“AFC Bournemouth can confirm that head coach, Andoni Iraola, will leave the club at the conclusion of the 2025/26 season, bringing an end to his successful three-year tenure on the south coast.”

Under Iraola, Bournemouth have extended their Premier League unbeaten run to 15 matches as of early May 2026, comprising wins and draws since a 3-2 defeat to Arsenal on 3 January.

This streak has positioned them 8th after Gameweek 33, with a chance to secure Champions League qualification for the first time in their history.

Iraola’s impact has drawn attention across Europe, with the coach aware of high demand for his services. He had been linked with Athletic Bilbao, but the Basque club appointed Edin Terzic instead.

How Does Chelsea’s Interest in Iraola Affect the Race?

Chelsea face competition from Crystal Palace in their pursuit of Iraola, according to reports from BBC Sport and The Standard.

The Blues, under interim head coach Calum McFarlane following the sacking of Liam Rosenior last month, view Iraola as one of several early frontrunners.

As reported by football.london, Chelsea have initiated initial discussions with Iraola’s representatives to gauge his interest in replacing Rosenior. Standard Sport understands:

“Chelsea are ready to explore talks with Andoni Iraola over their vacant head coach position… he is one of a small number of early frontrunners for the role.”

However, Palace are leading the way to appoint the Spaniard, per BBC Sport and The Standard, despite Chelsea’s interest alongside candidates like Fulham’s Marco Silva and Xabi Alonso.[query] Chelsea have no intention of announcing a new manager until the season ends.

What Other Managerial Links Surround Iraola and Palace?

Iraola has been linked with Manchester United, currently managed by interim coach Michael Carrick.[query] Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano stated:

“I’m not aware of Man United negotiating with Andoni Iraola. I’m told he would be open to that, for sure – but, at the moment, nothing more than this… he is open to staying in the Premier League.”

For Crystal Palace, other names on their shortlist include Frank Lampard and Kieran McKenna, as reported by The Independent. Lampard, a former Chelsea manager, adds intrigue to the potential merry-go-round.

Reports from Fichajes indicate Palace are willing to make a substantial financial investment, having already put forward a multi-million dollar long-term project offer to Iraola.

Background of the Development

Oliver Glasner’s tenure at Crystal Palace began with immediate success, culminating in the 2025 FA Cup victory – the club’s first major honour – followed by the Community Shield. His decision to leave, announced on 16 January 2026 after a poor FA Cup defence exit to non-league Macclesfield, appears tied to frustrations over transfer policy, dating back to October 2025.

Andoni Iraola joined Bournemouth in 2023, transforming their fortunes with tactical acumen that has yielded consistent mid-table stability and now this unbeaten streak. Bournemouth’s potential European push underscores his achievements.

Chelsea’s instability post-Rosenior, with links to multiple coaches, reflects broader Premier League managerial flux as the 2025-26 season nears its close.

Prediction: Impact on Crystal Palace Supporters and Stakeholders

This development positions Crystal Palace to potentially secure a proven Premier League performer in Iraola, whose unbeaten run at Bournemouth demonstrates ability to elevate mid-table sides. For Palace fans, who have enjoyed Glasner’s silverware and a Conference League final run, Iraola’s appointment could ensure continuity in European football if the final is won, maintaining momentum at Selhurst Park.

Stakeholders, including chairman Steve Parish, stand to benefit from Iraola’s availability without compensation fees, allowing investment in squad building amid the club’s ambitious project. Bournemouth supporters face the end of a transformative era, but the Cherries’ strong position offers hope for a smooth transition.

Chelsea followers may see prolonged uncertainty if Palace succeed, delaying a post-Rosenior appointment and affecting end-of-season planning under McFarlane. Overall, the race highlights competitive dynamics, with Palace’s proactive planning giving them an edge for Iraola.