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Barcelona legend Xavi and outgoing Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola have both been included on AC Milan’s shortlist for their next head coach, even as Crystal Palace continue efforts to bring the Spanish tactician to Selhurst Park.

Following an initial approach to Iraola’s representatives, Serie A giants AC Milan have identified him as a leading candidate for their managerial vacancy. The Spanish coach, known for his structured and high-intensity style, is among the top names shortlisted by the San Siro club, which also includes former Barcelona manager Xavi. Meanwhile, Premier League side Crystal Palace remain actively interested in appointing Iraola as they prepare for the new season.

Reports indicate that Milan have begun formal discussions with Iraola’s camp after making sweeping internal changes at the club. According to SunSport, the Rossoneri reached out to the Basque tactician shortly after dismissing Massimiliano Allegri, who was let go following a disastrous final-day defeat to Cagliari. The former Bournemouth boss, who recently concluded a successful three-year spell with the Cherries, is now taking time to evaluate his next move while keeping Palace waiting on his decision.

The 43-year-old coach, originally from the Basque region, has insisted he will not rush into a new commitment. After deciding not to renew his contract on the south coast, he said he wanted time to reflect before making his next career step. Speaking after Bournemouth’s impressive sixth-place finish, Iraola shared his emotions about departing the club: “The Champagne is in the changing room, we were celebrating like we should. I enjoyed every second with the fans and the players; it’s so nice to finish like this and to have something to celebrate. I have seen a lot of people who have supported me these three years.”

He further added, “It’s half term for the kids, I will stay in Bournemouth until July. I will celebrate with the staff, I will go home for at least a week and take my time to make this decision.”

Meanwhile, AC Milan’s ownership group led by Gerry Cardinale, with Zlatan Ibrahimovic playing a key role in the club’s sporting direction, are said to be focusing on a full-scale cultural rebuild. Xavi, who recently left Barcelona, is being viewed as another strong contender for the role. According to reports from Corriere dello Sport, Milan are seeking a modern, forward-thinking manager — the type described as a ‘Cesc Fabregas-style’ progressive figure. While the speculation surrounding Antonio Conte has cooled down, both Xavi and Iraola remain at the top of Milan’s list. However, there is still some uncertainty in European media circles about whether Milan themselves initiated the contact or if intermediaries acted first.

As for Crystal Palace, the club is facing a nervous wait. The Selhurst Park hierarchy has identified Iraola as their preferred replacement for Oliver Glasner. Although Sportitalia dismissed claims linking the Spaniard to Napoli, it confirmed that representatives have been in talks with several Serie A clubs on his behalf. This places Iraola in a strong negotiating position as he weighs the prospect of leading AC Milan’s revival against the opportunity to spearhead a new project in South London once the upcoming Conference League final concludes.