Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has been handed a contract extension by the Premier League club for his efforts in helping the Cherries record their best finish in a Premier League season.

The 41-year-old joined the Cherries in a 2-year deal in January 2023 but has now signed a 12-month extension till the end of the 2025/2026 season. Irola joined Bournemouth from Spanish La Liga side Rayo Vallecano after Gary O’Neil’s exit last summer.

Interestingly, his reign at the Vitality Stadium started with just three points from his first nine games. He then went on an unbeaten run of seven matches which also had a 3-0 win over Manchester United at Old Trafford.

Iraola explained his delight at signing a new contract at the club while appreciating the fans for supporting the team even in the beginning when they were not winning games. He also said that they have been very helpful to the players for the whole year.

“I’m very happy to sign the contract. For me, it is a matter of renewing the confidence from both sides. We have had a good experience with our first season together in the Premier League, and I am happy that both sides want to continue the relationship further. I would like to thank the supporters for everything in our first year together.” Iraola said.

Bournemouth currently sits in 11th on the table with 48 points and will face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Sunday, the final day of the season, but a win can only take them a higher place, depending on Brighton’s result on the final day.

Andoni Irola won the manager of the month for March after seeing the team win against Burnley, Luton Town, and Everton, and he is also in the running for the Premier League manager of the season award.