The Rise of Andoni Iraola: A Football Journey
The Football Interview: A Deep Dive with Andoni Iraola
The Football Interview is a new series where prominent figures in sports and entertainment engage in insightful conversations with host Kelly Somers about the beloved game of football.
This series delves into mindset, motivation, defining moments, career achievements, and personal reflections, revealing the individual behind the athlete.
Episodes will be available on Saturdays across BBC iPlayer, BBC Sounds, and the BBC Sport website. This week’s interview will air on BBC One at 23:55 BST on Saturday, September 27 (following Sportscene in Scotland).
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Andoni Iraola's Journey to Football Prominence
Andoni Iraola may not have had the highest profile when he took over as Bournemouth manager in June 2023, but two years later, he has emerged as one of the most sought-after coaches in world football.
Iraola began his football journey at the prestigious Basque club Antiguoko, where he played alongside notable figures such as Xabi Alonso and Mikel Arteta, who are now managing Real Madrid and Arsenal, respectively.
During his four seasons as captain of Athletic Club, he led the team to two Copa del Rey finals, a Europa League final, and secured qualification for the Champions League.
After transitioning into management, Iraola coached at AEK Larnaca, Mirandes, and Rayo Vallecano before arriving in England, where he guided Bournemouth to their highest points tally in Premier League history.
At 43 years old, Iraola has recently been linked with prestigious clubs such as Real Madrid, Tottenham, and Manchester United, underscoring his rising reputation.
In a recent discussion with Kelly Somers, Iraola reflected on his childhood, the key influences in his managerial career, and his passion for reading.
Kelly Somers: What does football mean to you?
Andoni Iraola: Football started as a hobby for me and has now become my profession. I still enjoy the game, but becoming a professional changes your perspective. It transforms from pure passion to a demanding job.
Kelly: But you still love it?
Andoni: Yes, absolutely.
Kelly: What’s your earliest memory of playing football?
Andoni: Some of my fondest memories are playing on the beach in San Sebastian with my school team. We started playing around the ages of five or six, and we would play every two weeks depending on the tides. Those were lovely times.
Kelly: Can you recall the first team you played for?
Andoni: I began with my school team, then moved to a local neighborhood team. I joined Athletic Club at 16, and it wasn’t until then that I realized I could pursue football as more than just a hobby.
Kelly: Was there a moment when you thought, 'Yes, I have a chance'?
Andoni: Yes, I was apprehensive when I got the opportunity to move. Living an hour away from Bilbao meant changing schools and living alone at the academy. I worried about my ability to compete, but once I arrived, I realized I could hold my own.
Kelly: Early in your career, you played alongside some notable managers. Can you share more about that?
Andoni: It’s remarkable. When we were young, I played with Mikel Arteta and Xabi Alonso. We were the same age and often faced each other on the beach or played together at Antiguoko. Now, nearly 40 years later, we’re all involved in football.
Kelly: Are there any managers who significantly influenced your career?
Andoni: Yes, Ernesto Valverde stands out. He was my manager at Athletic Club when I was 16 and helped me debut. His influence has been profound throughout my career, and he remains a key figure in my life.
Kelly: If you could name three managers who have impacted you, who would they be?
Andoni: I've been fortunate to work with many great managers. Marcelo Bielsa had a unique perspective on the game that greatly influenced my transition into management. I also admire Carlo Ancelotti for his success and approachable nature.
Kelly: You’ve played and managed in various countries. Which one has had the most significant impact on you as a manager?
Andoni: My time in America was pivotal. Although it wasn’t the peak of my playing career, it was when I began considering retirement and thinking about the game differently. Patrick Vieira, my coach there, introduced me to a new style of play that has been beneficial in my managerial journey.
Kelly: What was it like growing up? Tell me about your family.
Andoni: From a young age, I traveled alone to school in San Sebastian, and after classes, I would take a bus to training. My parents worked hard, which instilled independence in me. Moving away at 16 was challenging, but it ultimately helped me grow.
Kelly: Do you have any siblings?
Andoni: No, I’m an only child.
Kelly: Who did you play football with while growing up?
Andoni: In Spain, school schedules allowed for breaks where we could play. Many of my friends were involved in football, which made for a vibrant community.