Fiorentina’s swift loan for Jimenez sidelines Iraola’s influence

Spanish defender Álex Jiménez was unveiled today as Fiorentina’s newest signing after a swift loan move from Bournemouth, which includes an option to buy. He described the negotiations as ‘quick’, emphasized focusing on the present under coach Grosso, and noted that former boss Andoni Iraola belongs to the past.

The club introduced Jiménez in a press conference held in the Tuscan capital, confirming his arrival at the Stadio Franchi on loan from Bournemouth. The agreement also grants Fiorentina the option to secure his services permanently.

Jiménez told TMW that the deal was ‘all very quick’ and that he accepted immediately because he liked the opportunities ahead. ‘I’m very happy to be here,’ he added.

He stressed that his focus is now on what coach Massimiliano Grosso asks of him, saying ‘I want to focus on the present and on what Grosso asks of me.’ He also remarked that Andoni Iraola, who coached him at Bournemouth, is now ‘in the past’.

A product of the Real Madrid academy, the 21‑year‑old Spanish defender has already played in three different countries. His career path includes spells in England, Italy and Spain.

Reflecting on his Premier League experience, Jiménez said the league’s physical nature will help him adapt to Serie A. ‘The Premier League is surely more physical, and having played there will help me here,’ he explained. A photo caption from his Bournemouth days listed the location as BOURNEMOUTH, England.

When asked about his preferred position, he said he is at the team’s disposal but favours the right‑back role. He admitted he has not yet heard specific expectations from the coach and expects to understand them in the coming days.

During his time at AC Milan, Jiménez won the Supercoppa Italiana in 2024‑25 and featured in 34 senior matches, including 26 Serie A appearances. He did not score in Italy’s top flight but recorded a single Premier League goal for Bournemouth last season.

Jiménez will now concentrate on integrating into Fiorentina’s defensive set‑up, awaiting further guidance from Grosso as the season progresses.