Bournemouth considered Imanol Alguacil for their head coach position this summer before appointing Marco Rose. The 55-year-old Spanish coach, who was dismissed by Real Sociedad in May, has now been appointed manager of Olympiacos by owner Evangelos Marinakis.
Alguacil was a candidate for the vacancy at the Vitality Stadium following the departure of Andoni Iraola. The club's search ultimately led to the appointment of Marco Rose, who took charge as Bournemouth began the new Premier League campaign. The Cherries currently sit 15th in the table with three points from four games, having drawn 2-2 with Brentford in their last outing.
Managerial interest
The former Real Sociedad boss was also considered by Tottenham Hotspur before they hired Thomas Frank, who was himself sacked after eight months. Alguacil's reputation was built over seven years in San Sebastian, where he led the club to five consecutive European qualification seasons and won the Copa del Rey in 2020. His work earned significant praise from prominent figures in the game.
Jose Mourinho said: "It’s difficult to find weaknesses in Real Sociedad. Imanol is a very good coach; he has a very well-prepared team." Luis Enrique also lauded him, stating: "Real Sociedad is the Spanish team that plays the best football, without any doubt. Imanol Alguacil deserves congratulations."
Recent movements
After leaving Real Sociedad, Alguacil spent seven months in charge of Saudi Pro League side Al Shabab before departing in February. His appointment at Olympiacos sees him succeed Jose Luis Mendilibar, who was let go by Marinakis just seven matches into the new Greek season. This marks the 25th managerial change made by the Nottingham Forest owner in 16 years.
For Bournemouth, the focus is now firmly on Rose and the current campaign. The team's form reads one win, three draws and one defeat from the last five matches. Key absentees from the squad include Amine Adli, Veljko Milosavljević, Eli Junior Kroupi and Julián Araujo.
Looking ahead
The immediate challenge is a home fixture against Liverpool on September 20. Liverpool, currently seventh, are managed by Andoni Iraola, the former Bournemouth boss who was ultimately chosen for the Anfield role over Alguacil. Fans can view the full upcoming schedule on the fixtures page. Bournemouth have scored six goals but conceded seven so far this season, leaving them with a negative goal difference as they prepare for a tough run of games.
