Leeds United manager news as they refuse to give up on Andoni Iraola
Leeds United are unwilling to give up on their pursuit of Rayo Vallecano manager Andoni Iraola, who remains their number one target to replace Jesse Marsch, according to Mo Ibrahim.
The club were dealt another blow in the search to replace the American as Feyenoord manager Arne Slot publicly announced he would be remaining with the Eredivisie league leaders and not moving to Elland Road on Friday. [Voetbal International, 10 February]
Gianluca Di Marzio’s English site editor provided an update on Friday night (10 February), suggesting that Leeds wouldn’t back down until they’re “100% sure” Iraola wasn’t in the picture for the job.
He wrote: “They’re working on it, it’s not easy. Managers are mid-way through the season so are far into their plans.
“Iraola number one priority and they won’t back down until they are 100% sure he won’t leave. It’s a waiting game now.”
Waiting game
The waiting game continues for Leeds fans, but they must be starting to get a little worried after a string of the club’s top targets all turned down the chance to take the job. First, it was Carlos Corberan at West Brom, then it was Slot yesterday, and the deal for Iraola is still clouded in rumours and speculation.
Iraola always looked to be the best fit for the job, so it is no surprise they remain keen on his services. His naturally free-flowing, high-press game plan he enjoys playing suits the Whites to perfection, however, his contract clause remains “incredibly awkward” to negotiate around, according to The Athletic’s Phil Hay (10 February).
Whoever Victor Orta decides is best to bring into the job, it has to be done quickly, as Leeds really need to get back to winning ways in the league. The instant turnaround of Sean Dyche’s Everton shows just what an impact a new manager can have on a team, and Leeds certainly could do with picking up some points.
In other Leeds United news, a release clause has emerged as the club continue their pursuit for a new manager.