Manchester United have received a massive boost in their pursuit of 43-year-old Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola.
Andoni Iraola could make the switch to Old Trafford in the near future if Manchester United end up parting ways with Ruben Amorim. According to a report from TEAMtalk, the Bournemouth boss would love to manage the Manchester-based giants if the chance comes up.
Amorim took charge at Manchester United towards the end of 2024. He came in with a lot of expectations, having done wonders at Sporting CP. However, the move has not worked out as the Red Devils finished 15th in the league last season, their lowest ever in Premier League history.
Despite being backed by the board in the summer and bringing in some top-level stars, the Portuguese manager has not been able to get the desired results. Manchester United are currently 14th in the league. Following a very disappointing start to the new season, Amorim is under extreme pressure to save his job.
The struggling Premier League giants have already started planning for life without him. They are considering potential replacements and are gearing up to hold talks. While Amorim still has the backing of the board, a few more bad results could prove fatal.
Iraola to replace Amorim?
Andoni Iraola is one of the names on Manchester United’s wishlist. The Spanish manager has done wonders at Bournemouth, and he is attracting a lot of interest from across Europe. The Spaniard is believed to be quite high on Manchester United’s shortlist because of his impressive track record of delivering on a modest budget and his system.
If Manchester United do part ways with Amorim, Iraola will be the favourite to take his place. With the 43-year-old’s contract at the Cherries running down in less than a year, signing him might not be that big a financial flow. He has transformed Bournemouth into a resilient mid-table club, and the Red Devils feel he could be the one to help them back to the top.
Iraola has earned a lot of plaudits because of his work at Bournemouth. His emphasis on high pressing and ability to develop young talent could do wonders at Manchester United. Meanwhile, his 4-2-3-1 formation could better suit the players in United’s current squad.
While Bournemouth are pushing to extend his stay at the club, Iraola is keen on a new challenge. Managing a club like Manchester United will be a dream opportunity for the 43-year-old Spanish tactician.
