Ritchie appointed Bournemouth Technical Director

The 36-year-old will work across recruitment, player pathways, squad planning and football strategy and report into President of Football Operations Tiago Pinto, who has overall charge of the football department. Pinto arrived at Bournemouth from AS Roma in May 2024.

Pinto said: “Matt’s connection with AFC Bournemouth, combined with his experience throughout the game, makes him an excellent addition to the technical team and someone I’m looking forward to working with closely.

“As we continue to grow as a club, it is important that we maintain the DNA, values and identity that have brought us success. Matt will play an important role in helping us do that while also driving the club forward.”

Ritchie added: “AFC Bournemouth has always meant a huge amount to me, so to return in this capacity is incredibly special.

“I’ve spent a long time preparing for what’s next for me after playing, learning from experienced people across the game and developing my understanding of the technical and strategic side of football. Now I’ve met Marco, I’m even more excited about what is to come and look forward to working together.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity and can’t wait to begin working with the staff, players and ownership group as we continue building for the future. I’d like to emphasise my thanks to Bill [Foley, owner], Ryan [Caswell, Director] and Tiago for the opportunity and belief they’ve shown in me.”

Ritchie made 142 appearances for the Cherries between 2013 and 2016 and returns to the Vitality Stadium following a playing career spanning 17 years, taking in appearances in the Champions League, Premier League and Football League. The former winger played a pivotal role in some of the most successful periods in Bournemouth’s history, scoring 31 goals in a side promoted from both League One and the Championship.

Over recent years, he has completed a number of professional development and technical courses — including working towards his A Licence in Bournemouth’s Academy.

He steps into a senior leadership position without having held a non-playing role before but Francis also came through the playing ranks into Bournemouth’s off-field structure — although he built up experience over several years as a scout and Assistant Technical Director before taking the top job.