Man Utd information: Andoni Iraola’s stark managerial admission as Wayne Rooney raises concern
Manchester United were held to a goalless draw by Sunderland on Saturday, with Michael Carrick’s side not registering a shot on target until the 93rd minute
Andoni Iraola has been linked to Man Utd(Image: AFC Bournemouth via Getty Images)
Michael Carrick could have just two matches remaining as Manchester United boss after they were held to a goalless stalemate by Sunderland. While Carrick has flourished with the Red Devils since assuming interim control until the season’s end, he was unable to galvanise his side to triumph at the Stadium of Light.
United appeared sluggish for most of the clash, despite entering the fixture in considerably better nick than the Black Cats. Regis Le Bris’s Sunderland managed to control proceedings for lengthy spells, enjoying the lion’s share of opportunities and possession.
For perspective, United only mustered their first effort on target 93 minutes in when Matheus Cunha’s attempt was kept out by Robin Roefs’s shoulder. And with the Red Devils no nearer to naming a permanent head coach for the upcoming campaign, numerous worries have been voiced by supporters and experts alike…
Wayne Rooney’s managerial concern
Wayne Rooney reckons that the doubt over who will be United’s manager next term could damage the club this summer, given potential signings will want clarity on who they’ll be working under, reports the Mirror.
While Champions League qualification is assured following a revival under Carrick, it remains unclear whether the 44 year old will be the man to steer them both domestically and in European competition moving forward.
While they have been connected with a host of talent in the middle of the park as they seek to find Casemiro’s replacement, including the likes of Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton and Sandro Tonali, any new signing will likely want to understand how they feature in a specific manager’s vision before putting pen to paper.
Speaking on Match of the Day, Rooney said: “Manchester United need to invest in players in the summer in order to compete in the Premier League next season, in the Champions League next season, which is where they want to be. They have to invest.
“They have to strengthen the squad and I don’t think there’s any denying that. Now, if I was a player and Man United wanted to sign me, the first question I’d ask, ‘Who is the manager? Does the manager want me?’ So I think [they need] to have clarity on the manager.”
The Red Devils icon is also a strong advocate for Carrick being given a permanent contract with the club, and believes they should confirm him without delay. He added: “I think for the club to announce him, I think they need to do it swiftly because they need to get players in. They need to get players to improve that team.”
Andoni Iraola’s stark managerial admission
Iraola has confessed that he is “in no rush” to decide on his next step, despite being linked with both United and Chelsea. The Bournemouth manager will conclude a three-year stint at the Vitality Stadium at the end of the season, even as the Cherries are flying high towards a spot in Europe.
While several Premier League clubs are believed to be keen on the idea of appointing him as head coach, including Crystal Palace, it’s now understood that Iraola won’t be hurried into accepting a position.
Following Saturday’s 1-0 victory over Fulham in London, the Spaniard stated: “I’m in no rush. I will not talk about my future. I’m fully focused on trying to finish this season with a reward, something tangible for the [Bournemouth] players and supporters.”
He went on to say: “It was not an easy decision [to leave] but once it is made you feel relief. I feel we have used it in a positive way.”
“Since that day, we’ve had great results but also the mood. Everyone is clear, the relationship is so clean and honest. Okay, this is going to happen, next season Marco Rose will be our manager.”
“Everyone knows what’s happening. We are in good place and can use this in a positive way.”
