Andoni Iraola increasingly likely to be named next Man United manager as Bournemouth hint dropped

Andoni Iraola has seen his odds slashed in the race to be named the next Manchester United manager after dropping a hint over his AFC Bournemouth future.

Michael Carrick remains the overwhelming favourite to be given the job permanently, given the transformational effect he has had on the Red Devils since arriving as interim manager in January.

The 44-year-old’s first games in charge came against Manchester City and Arsenal, with his side stunning onlookers by emerging with six points.

Carrick has hit bumps in the road in recent weeks after drawing with West Ham and losing to Newcastle United, but his side remain in the driving seat for Champions League qualification.

Man United’s next manager, whether that is Carrick or not, will have far more money to work with in the summer should the Red Devils return to Europe’s elite competition.

Andoni Iraola has odds slashed

Former Old Trafford chief scout Mick Brown exclusively told Football Insider this week that Carrick is popular at Man United.

As a player, the Englishman spent 12 years with the club, winning the Premier League five times and the Champions League once.

He is remembered among the most underrated players in Man United history, making 464 appearances during his time at Old Trafford.

Carrick will hope to have a more prominent career as a manager, however, although it is still unclear whether the next step will permanently be back at his former club.

The 44-year-old has impressed so far, but decision-makers will also be well aware that his team are not currently playing in usual circumstances.

Should Carrick achieve Champions League qualification and stay on, he will face the task of rotating a squad amid three, and eventually four competitions. Man United will not be afforded the regular week-long breaks they are currently playing with.

It is for that reason that other managers remain in contention. One major bookmaker has slashed the odds of Iraola taking the job to 12/1 in recent hours, while Carrick remains the 11/8 favourite.

What Iraola said on Bournemouth future

Iraola’s contract at Bournemouth is set to expire in the summer, with several clubs reportedly tracking developments.

The Cherries are desperate to keep hold of the 43-year-old, who has led his side to the club’s record points tallies consecutively in the Premier League.

Speaking about his future on Friday, Iraola said: “Definitely [closer to a decision]. It is something we will decide sooner rather than later, but there is no news. When there is something to say, we will say it.”

“I have one thing clear, the club and me are very open,” he added. “We talk a lot, I have a great relationship with [technical director] Simon Francis and [president of football operations] Tiago [Pinto].”

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