Manchester United have suffered a massive blow in their pursuit of Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola.

According to Pete O’Rourke via Football Insider, Bournemouth remain optimistic about keeping hold of Andoni Iraola, despite strong interest in his services from Manchester United. The Cherries are confident that he will put pen to paper on a new deal in the near future.

On the back of an impressive three-year spell at Rayo Vallecano, Iraola took charge of the Premier League club in the summer of 2023. Over the last three seasons, he has led them in 117 matches, and he averages 1.40 points per game.

Andoni Iraola’s time at Bournemouth

The 43-year-old has certainly done a great job for the Cherries, and his work hasn’t gone unnoticed. He has significantly enhanced his reputation with his work in the English top flight, and top clubs now want him on their bench.

With his current deal running out at the end of the season, Manchester United are looking at him as an option to become their next permanent manager. Since sacking Ruben Amorim, they have handed the reins to Michael Carrick, who has completely turned things around for them.

Despite his sensational start to life at Old Trafford, he is not certain be given the role on a permanent basis. The Red Devils continue to monitor all possible options, and Iraola is quite high on their wishlist because of what he has done at Bournemouth.

While speaking about Iraola’s future, O’Rourke said, “I think there’s growing optimism from Bournemouth that they can persuade Iraola to stay at the club.

“Obviously he is out of contract at the end of the season, and there will be a number of clubs that are looking at his situation, not just in the Premier League but also overseas, especially in his native Spain.

“Bournemouth are happy with what Iraola is doing there. They’ve obviously backed him with some big-name signings in the January window, having sold Antoine Semenyo.

“They’re in the European places for the first time in their history which would be a huge achievement by everyone at the club and Iraola. He is a very highly respected manager.”

United won’t be able to land Andoni Iraola

However, United are unlikely to land him, as the Cherries are confident about agreeing a new deal with the 43-year-old. While his contract situation has led to a lot of talk about his future, Bournemouth have no plans of losing his services.

They are very optimistic about his committing his long-term future to the club with a new deal. Despite having lost quite a few key players over the last two transfer windows, Iraola has led them into eighth place in the Premier League in the ongoing campaign.

He is a seasoned campaigner who knows all about the English top flight, which is why multiple top clubs want him. United are serious suitor, but as things stand, he might not be going anywhere anytime soon.