Andoni Iraola, who is leaving Bournemouth, is reportedly a candidate to become Manchester United’s next permanent manager this summer. The Cherries manager, who is set to leave the Vitality Stadium when his contract expires, has been named on United’s shortlist alongside caretaker manager Michael Carrick, months after the sacking of Ruben Amorim.
The Telegraph reported that Iraola is highly regarded by United’s decision-makers, with his coaching philosophy and attacking approach to the game proving to be an attractive player. His tactical framework is reportedly exactly what United are looking to replicate.
Mr Carrick has made a positive impression during his tenure as the club’s interim head coach, with the Red Devils moving closer to a return to Champions League football. United need two points from their remaining four games to mathematically confirm their place in Europe’s most prestigious competition.
Despite Carrick’s encouraging performances since returning to Old Trafford, United bosses are reportedly wary of repeating the situation when Ole Gunnar Solskjaer took over as manager in 2019. United remain committed to carrying out a thorough interview process and exercising due diligence in making the appointment, with Carrick expected to remain manager until the end of the season.
The Red Devils will continue to hold discussions with other candidates, but Iraola is highly rated and would like to remain in the Premier League, but is open to the possibility of residing in London, according to reports. Crystal Palace are also being pursued by Iraora, with head coach Oliver Glasner set to leave Selhurst Park this summer, while Chelsea are also interested in the Bournemouth manager. The Blues are looking for a new head coach after parting ways with Liam Rosenior just a few months into his contract, but Marco Silva and Xabi Alonso are also reportedly being approached for the vacant vacancy at Stamford Bridge.
It is said that United intend to hold off on any managerial changes until they are certain of Champions League football before making too much progress in order to avoid unnecessary disruption. Asked about his future at the club earlier this month, Carrick said: “As far as deadlines go, it’s not something I’m really chasing. It’ll be clear when it’s clear.”
United’s caretaker manager also rejected comparisons with Solskjaer, adding: “I have the utmost respect for him. He’s a close friend of mine and I’ve worked closely with him during my time here. We’ve done a lot of good things and come close to that.”
“You can compare all sorts of situations with managers, coaches and teams over the years, but it’s really irrelevant, it really is. It’s neither negative nor positive.
“There’s no relevance at all. Regardless of who’s in charge, we’re a different team now. Comparisons literally make no difference.”
