Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has moved to clarify his future at the club, amid growing speculation linking him with a potential summer move to Manchester United or a return to his former side Athletic Bilbao. The 43-year-old addressed the rumours following his team's recent draw with the Red Devils, emphasising his commitment to the Cherries.
Iraola Dismisses Distraction from Bilbao Links
Iraola, an iconic figure at Athletic Bilbao with 510 appearances as a player, has been touted as a possible replacement for outgoing manager Ernesto Valverde. However, the Bournemouth boss insists that talk of a return to the Basque club is not affecting his focus on the South Coast.
Speaking in a post-match press conference, Iraola stated: "It affects me probably as a supporter because I support this club. Obviously I've been playing there for a lot of years and it 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."
He added: "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."
Contract Situation and Bournemouth Discussions
With his contract set to expire at the end of the season, Iraola confirmed that he has not been approached by anyone at Bilbao and suggested that talks about extending his stay with Bournemouth remain open. "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," he explained.
Manchester United Interest and Pundit Backing
While Iraola has been linked with his former club, Manchester United have also emerged as potential suitors for the Spanish manager. Football pundit Jamie Redknapp has publicly endorsed Iraola as a candidate for the Old Trafford role, should it become available.
Speaking on Sky Sports, Redknapp 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."
Redknapp continued: "If he was one of the managers they looked at, 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."
Andy Cole Adds Support for United Move
Former Manchester United striker Andy Cole also believes Iraola would be a strong candidate for the role at his old club. Cole remarked: "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."
Cole added: "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."
Focus Remains on Bournemouth
Despite the mounting speculation from both Bilbao and United, Iraola's comments indicate that his immediate priority is Bournemouth. The manager's successful tenure, marked by attractive, high-energy football and consistent mid-table finishes, has clearly caught the attention of larger clubs.
As the season approaches its conclusion, all eyes will be on Iraola's next move. Whether he chooses to extend his stay with the Cherries, return to his spiritual home in Bilbao, or take on the challenge of revitalising Manchester United, his managerial stock continues to rise sharply.
