Andoni Iraola is clearly ready to take his time before deciding on his next job despite Manchester United and Chelsea being keen on the outgoing Bournemouth boss
Andoni Iraola will leave Bournemouth this summer
Andoni Iraola will leave Bournemouth this summer(Image: Getty Images)
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Andoni Iraola claims he is "in no rush" to make a decision on his next move amid reported interest from Manchester United and Chelsea.
The Spaniard confirmed his departure from Bournemouth in the aftermath of their win at Arsenal, bringing an end to his three year spell in charge of the Cherries. He is on course to leave on a high with the south coast club soaring towards Europe.
Iraola's stock has risen and risen throughout his time in England and, after his work at Bournemouth, he could command some hefty offers. Some of those could come from Premier League clubs, with Crystal Palace thought to be keen on his services.
Heavyweights in United and Chelsea are also keen. Those in Manchester, whom have seen Iraola's Bournemouth beat them handsomely in recent seasons, are weighing up their options as Michael Carrick continues to prove himself in the dugout.
Chelsea are newer into their managerial hunt having axed Liam Rosenior. They will wait until the season is over, but there may be concerns from Iraola's side over their sporting structure and their recent record of hiring and firing managers.
The outgoing Bournemouth boss may also be tempted by jobs back in his homeland. Athletic Bilbao will see their manager, Ernesto Valverde, leave in the summer and may look to lure Iraola, who is from the Basque region and played more than 400 times for the Spanish club.
Iraola's exit announcement has not halted the Cherries' momentum and their win over Fulham on Saturday saw them consolidate sixth spot and close on Aston Villa in fifth. "It was not an easy decision but once it is made you feel relief," said Iraola.
Chelsea are seeking their next permanent manager
Chelsea are seeking their next permanent manager(Image: Daniel Weir/Sports Press Photo/Shutterstock)
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"I feel we have used it in a positive way. Since that day, we’ve had great results but also the mood. Everyone is clear, the relationship is so clean and honest. OK, this is going to happen, next season Marco Rose will be our manager. Everyone knows what’s happening. We are in good place and can use this in a positive way.”
Iraola was a relatively unknown quantity when he came to the Premier League from Rayo Vallecano. Despite a slow start his qualities quickly became evident and he's on course to deliver Bournemouth's best ever top flight finish.
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