Andoni Iraola: PL side test Man United’s interest in Spaniard for the top job

Andoni Iraola: PL side test Man United’s interest in Spaniard for the top job

If Manchester United truly wish to appoint Andoni Iraola as their next head coach, they may need to act now.

On 14 April, news broke that Iraola and AFC Bournemouth will part ways in the summer.

Iraola’s brilliance at Bournemouth

Even with limited resources, the 43‑year‑old tactician has excelled at the Vitality Stadium.

Under him, the Cherries have moved away from relegation battles. Instead, they have competed and registered impressive results that even earned them last season’s ninth‑place finish, their joint‑highest finish in Premier League history.

Now set to become a free agent, Iraola is free to take on a new project of his choosing, and his availability has certainly turned heads.

United, still searching for a permanent head coach, are among the clubs reportedly weighing up an approach. According to Fabrizio Romano, Iraola would be open to taking charge at Old Trafford if they make their move.

Yet as United deliberate, cautious not to unsettle morale with Michael Carrick currently at the helm, they risk missing out if Iraola is indeed their dream target.

Palace make a daring move

Crystal Palace have already stepped into the race.

Marca reports: “The Spanish manager, who announced a few days ago that he is leaving Bournemouth at the end of the season, already has a lucrative offer from Crystal Palace to take charge of the London club.”

It is explained, “Palace, who are willing to invest millions of pounds each season to strengthen their squad, want him as part of their project.

“The offer has been made, and the manager is expected to respond in the coming days, as he is currently considering the situation.”

United’s dilemma

For sure, United may now have to show their hand in the Iraola chase. They must give him compelling reasons to reject Palace’s offer, or risk watching another top tactician slip from their wishlist.

Thomas Tuchel, Carlo Ancelotti, and Roberto De Zerbi are already unattainable; soon, Iraola could join them.

INEOS must act decisively if they believe Iraola is the right manager for United. Now is the time to present a compelling offer and secure his commitment before rivals intervene.

Featured image Shaun Botterill via Getty Images

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