Andoni Iraola is increasingly open to joining Chelsea this summer, as the outgoing Bournemouth manager finds the job attractive despite the mess at Stamford Bridge.
A report by Football Insider has brought good news for Chelsea in the battle for the signature of Andoni Iraola. The Bournemouth boss, also a target for Crystal Palace and Newcastle United, would “find it hard to turn down an offer” from the West London club, even though Stamford Bridge has harboured a “controversial working environment” for managers under the BlueCo ownership.
Andoni Iraola and his managerial career so far
Andoni Iraola has established himself as one of the best managers in the Premier League since joining Bournemouth nearly three years ago. The Spaniard arrived at the Vitality Stadium after an impressive stint with Rayo Vallecano, but he was slow off the blocks in the Premier League. That soon became a distant memory, as the Cherries have gone from strength to strength under his tutelage.
The 43-year-old has made Bournemouth one of the most eye-catching teams in the Premier League. A top-half finish in the Premier League is possible this season, with the Spanish tactician even selling dreams of European qualification with his team’s exploits in the ongoing campaign. That has piqued the attention of several bigwigs, including Chelsea, Crystal Palace, and Newcastle United.
Move across the Premier League on the cards?
Chelsea will dip into the market for a new head coach after sacking Liam Rosenior last week. The Blues require a tactician who can restore good vibes at the club and be tactically adept at taking on the world’s best teams. Iraola has thus emerged as a viable target for Chelsea. While the atmosphere at Stamford Bridge has been volatile under BlueCo, the Spaniard has no qualms about taking over as Rosenior’s long-term replacement.
Meanwhile, Crystal Palace’s interest in Andoni Iraola is understandable. The Eagles are preparing for life after Oliver Glasner, who confirmed his impending departure from Selhurst Park a few months ago. Several candidates have thus emerged on Crystal Palace’s wishlist, with Iraola also an option worth considering.
As for Newcastle United, Eddie Howe has failed to deliver this season, with the Tyneside outfit bracing for a lower-half finish. The Magpies may finish closer to the relegation zone than the European spots, and the struggles have created widespread speculation surrounding Howe’s future. Recent reports have given Newcastle some hope, suggesting Iraola is open to moving to St. James’ Park.
However, Crystal Palace and Newcastle United may have to look elsewhere for a new head coach, as Iraola is mulling over joining Chelsea. The possibility of managing the West London club is attractive for the 43-year-old Spanish tactician, and he has become the front-runner for the job.
