SportFootballAndoni IraolaAndoni Iraola is close to making a decision on his next club after leaving Bournemouth, with Crystal Palace rivalling a top European club for his services following Oliver Glasner's exit07:56, 29 May 2026Andoni Iraola is poised to decide between Crystal Palace and Bayer Leverkusen following an intense period of talks. The Spanish manager has been in high demand following a incredible spell with Bournemouth and is approaching the deadline to make the call.Iraola announced in April that he would leave Bournemouth at the end of the season. He signed off in style, leading the Cherries to sixth place and the Europa League thanks to a 18-game unbeaten run.Palace quickly moved for Iraola, making him a proposal to become Oliver Glasner's successor in south London. Glasner has stepped down at Palace after guiding them to the Conference League title and the Eagles want Iraola to remain in the Premier League this summer.However, Leverkusen have emerged as a serious contender for his services too. The German side have been through a turbulent spell, with Erik ten Hag lasting just three games in charge as Xabi Alonso's successor before Kasper Hjulmand took over to steer them to sixth in the Bundesliga.JOIN US ON FACEBOOK! Latest news, analysis and much more on Mirror Football's Facebook pageHjulmand remains in charge for now but talkSPORT says Iraola is in 'advanced talks' to take over. BBC Sport have reported that Palace want an answer from the 43-year-old before the end of this weekend, while Fabrizio Romano says staying in the Premier League is a 'priority' for Iraola.Both Palace and Leverkusen - as well as Bournemouth - will play in the Europa League next season, meaning they are on a level playing field. Iraola spent two hours meeting with Marco Rose earlier this week and his answer when asked about his successor at Bournemouth in April could offer a clue to his next move."Marco Rose's Gladbach was one of my favourite teams," Iraola said. "I really like German football because as a spectator I love it when things happen."It is not a case of you attack for two minutes and then it is my turn. Every player has to do more and more roles because everyone on the pitch is attacking and defending. I like that football where the player does everything."But speaking to Match of the Day after the final game of the season, Iraola said: "I don't know where I am going. 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."Asked who it would be the hardest to say goodbye to, Iraola said: "The people. I see these guys every day. My every day has been so good. I have enjoyed this so much and it is not easy.Article continues below"When you go to work with a smile, even in moments where results are maybe not as good, it is more a challenge. The atmosphere in the club is so positive. The club is growing. Now we are getting incredible results, it is good always to work in this kind of environment."Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.Choose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.Crystal Palace FCBayer LeverkusenAndoni IraolaAFC Bournemouth
Iraola close to job as Crystal Palace target enters 'advanced talks' with club
Andoni Iraola is close to making a decision on his next club after leaving Bournemouth, with Crystal Palace rivalling a top European club for his services following Oliver Glasner's exit















