Manchester United are set to consider appointing Andoni Iraola as the next permanent head coach this summer, in a move that would benefit a handful of players.
Michael Carrick remains in the race to become Manchester United’s next permanent head coach, but recent stumbles have seen other names come back into the thinking.
The shortlist of alternatives is indeed short, with United’s interest in Andoni Iraola remaining as he is now set to become available in June once his contract expires.
United have been linked with Bournemouth players, which would strengthen the chances of a deal for Iraola, but his arrival would benefit some existing talents at Old Trafford.
Where does Andoni Iraola rank for you among Michael Carrick alternatives?
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Ayden Heaven during Manchester United training session
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Andoni Iraola could turn Ayden Heaven into a league-leading centre-back
There is no denying that Iraola is one of the best managers in the Premier League, and his arrival would bring a defined style to the club, as well as a proven track record for improving players.
Iraola turned Dean Huijsen and Illia Zabarnyi into Real Madrid and PSG defenders, respectively, and at United, he could have a similar impact on Ayden Heaven.
United spent just £1.5m on Heaven, a fee which now looks like a bargain, being a fraction of his current value.
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However, Carrick’s underuse of Heaven has been one of the red flags around his management at the club so far, but Iraola could completely change this situation.
Iraola loves a centre-back who is comfortable in possession, with Marcos Senesi playing this role for his Bournemouth side, and Heaven could end up being key to his plans if he takes charge of United.
Heaven is Ineos’ biggest success story considering how good he is, for the fee he cost. But under Iraola, he could truly be unleashed and make strides toward becoming among the best in the league.
Iraola isn’t afraid to trust young players, and so Heaven, as the ball-playing left-sided defender, could be a really exciting move, as he has all the qualities Iraola demands.
Ayden Heaven was a BARGAIN… How much is he worth now?
Ayden Heaven value graphic
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Ayden Heaven should be starting for Manchester United right now
Whether Iraola is picked by Ineos or not, Heaven needs to be playing more football and should be starting for the club.
Heaven proved his quality in December, winning player of the month and showcasing that he is arguably the best centre-back at the club right now who is fit.
His ability on the ball alone offers United so much, and it’s baffling that he hasn’t played under Carrick.
Leny Yoro could also benefit under Iraola, for similar reasons, in that the system platforms defenders to look excellent.
But Heaven needs to be playing more.
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