Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola is closing in on joining Crystal Palace this summer, with AC Milan losing hope of securing his services.
According to an update by reputed Italian journalist Daniele Longo, Andoni Iraola is the subject of interest from AC Milan. The Serie A giants are scouring the managerial market for a long-term replacement for Massimiliano Allegri after sacking the Italian tactician. However, Longo has revealed that they feel he will “honour the agreement” with Crystal Palace.
Perhaps, their feeling is correct, as a report by Gazzetta dello Sport has revealed that the Spaniard is closing in on a move to Crystal Palace. The South London club will expedite the process of landing Iraola after winning the UEFA Europa Conference League this week.
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 43-year-old 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 been among the most impressive teams in the top flight under his tutelage.
The Spanish tactician has led Bournemouth to a top-six finish and a historic UEFA Europa League qualification. That has piqued the attention of several high-profile clubs, with Crystal Palace and AC Milan among the prospective suitors vying for his signature this year.
What next for Iraola?
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. The Spaniard’s vertical style of play will transform the South London club’s progress, suiting the squad profile.
As for AC Milan, Massimiliano Allegri has been sacked by the Serie A club after failing to guide his team to a top-four finish. The Italian giants are now ready to reset and restart their project under a new manager, identifying Iraola as the ideal candidate to instil a forward-thinking style of play.
However, with Crystal Palace closing in on securing the 43-year-old Spaniard’s services, AC Milan must look elsewhere for a new head coach. Meanwhile, the Eagles will be excited to kick-start their post-Glasner era after landing a world-class manager.