Surprise name on Barcelona's manager shortlist! Blaugrana keeping tabs on Bournemouth & Tyler Adams' boss Andoni Iraola

Posted Thursday, April 04, 2024 by Goal.com

Barcelona are tracking Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola as a potential managerial candidate with Xavi likely to leave the club in June

WHAT HAPPENED?
Barcelona seem to be facing a turbulent few months. In January, Xavi announced his intention to leave the club at the end of the season, leaving the reigning title holders searching for a new manager. And a new possible name has been floated by the club, with Iraola highlighted as a top talent, according to Sport.

THE BIGGER PICTURE
After being close to the sack at the start of the season, Iraola has turned things around for Bournemouth. Having been down in 19th at one point, the Spanish boss has guided them to 11th in recent weeks, with the Cherries winning four out of the last five games.

WHAT DECO SAID
Sporting director Deco has been full of praise for Iraola in the past, naming him among the best managers in the world in an interview for Spanish radio: "We haven’t made any moves. Of course I like Luis Enrique, but he is a coach that I have not worked with, but it is evident that he is a reference at all levels. He is a top coach. Guardiola and Klopp are the top, but they are not available. Arsenal’s Arteta, Iraola, [Sergio] Conceicao…there are many."

WHAT NEXT FOR BARCELONA?
The Blaugrana, although they have their eyes on Iraola, are reportedly keen to try to convince Xavi to stay at the club for at least another season. Results have improved in recent weeks, and club president Joan Laporta conceded that he is awaiting the manager to make a final decision on his future before approaching other candidates. Their next game is a high-profile Champions League clash with PSG on April 10.