Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola has been linked with a summer move to Manchester United and addressed his future after Friday evening’s draw with the Red Devils
Andoni Iraola
Andoni Iraola has been linked with a move to Bilbao(Image: Getty Images)
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Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola assures he is not distracted by links with former club Athletic Bilbao. The Spanish side are on the hunt for a new manager, with current head coach Ernesto Valverde having announced he will leave at the end of the season.
Iraola, 43, is an iconic figure at the Basque side, having made 510 appearances for the club during his playing career. He is also out of contract at the end of the season, which could make a move a lot easier.
But Iraola insists that he is not letting talk over his future detract from the work he is doing on the South Coast.
Speaking in his post-match press conference, the Bournemouth boss said: “It affects me probably as a supporter because, I support this club.
“Obviously I've been playing there for a lot of years and has been a surprise also for me. I have a lot of friends there, and in your group, you see the news and they send you their messages.
“And I can only speak very well. It's my biggest reference in football, Ernesto. So it's a decision that he has made, but it's not affecting me apart from the supporter side, let's say.”
Iraola then confirmed that he had not been approached by anyone at Bilbao and suggested that talks remain open about extending his stay with the Cherries.
He added: “I think there are situations that I said a lot of times, we have to discuss with the club internally, but it's not about any other club, it's about Bournemouth, and these are the only discussions that we are having.”
While Iraola has been linked with his former side, United have been touted as potential suitors for him in the future. And Jamie Redknapp has given the green light to a move to Old Trafford.
Ernesto Valverde
Ernesto Valverde is set to leave Spanish side Athletic Bilbao(Image: Getty Images)
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Speaking on Sky Sports, he said: “I’ve said that before absolutely. He could definitely do it. I love the way that Bournemouth play. They play in a high energy tempo that I think would be what Manchester United would want.
“If he was one of the managers they looked it, he could definitely do that job. There will be other jobs in the summer as well, obviously Tottenham will be available.
“There’s going to be a lot of clubs for him. It’s just a case of what’s right for him. He’s done such a great job at Bournemouth. I hope he stays because I love the club but I can also see the opportunities there.”
Meanwhile, Andy Cole also believes Iraola would be a good candidate for his former side. He said: “Yes, why not? He’s a good manager. Put it this way, he’s not going to struggle for options. To get Bournemouth in a position they’re in playing really good football, bringing in good players.
“That’s a big bonus. I’ve watched them a lot this season, they’re a good team. Finishing mid-table again for such a small club is testament to him.”