Andoni Iraola backed to become next Manchester United manager after breaking silence on Bournemouth future | OneFootball

Bournemouth boss has been linked with a return to Spain as Ernesto Valverde will leave Athletic Club this summer

Andoni Iraola has distanced himself from links to the Athletic Club job amid being tipped as a future Manchester United manager.

"No, it doesn't have anything to do with me,” Iraola told Sky Sports. “Probably as a supporter because it is my club but no it doesn't affect the situation.

“I've said it a lot of times I'm very happy here. I have a great relationship with the club and it's true that we will have to take a decision according to this but it's a situation I have had most of my years as manager.

“It is not new to me."

Meanwhile, Jamie Redknapp and Andy Cole were both in agreement that Iraola should be on Man Utd’s radar if they decide against appointing Michael Carrick permanently.

“I have said that before [Iraola being on Man United’s managerial shortlist] absolutely, I think he could definitely do it. Bournemouth play with high energy and tempo that I think Manchester United would want if he was the one of the managers they looked at.

“I think he could definitely do that job.”

“Yeah, why not? He’s a good manager,” was the response from Cole when asked if the Spaniard should be considered by his former club.

“But put it this way, he’s not going to struggle for options. I think to get Bournemouth in the positions they find themselves in, playing really good football and bringing in good players, that is a big bonus.

“I have watched them quite a bit this season, they are a good team. Finishing mid-table again for such a small club is a testament to him.”