Rayo Vallecano chief addresses future of Leeds United manager target Andoni Iraola
Rayo Vallecano director David Cobeno has admitted that the club sent a clear message about Andoni Iraola’s future amid links to Leeds United.
The Whites were considering a move for the Rayo manager as they parted ways with Jesse Marsch after a poor run of results and even sent a delegation to Spain to convince him. [Guardian]
However, the Spanish side remained hell-bent on their stance and Iraola appears set to stay put for the time being.
Cobeno told Radio Marca, “We can rest easy. At the club, there were zero doubts about Andoni’s continuity. He is a person of his word.
“He has an objective set with Rayo that is salvation and until it is achieved, Andoni will not step the other way.
“They called us from England. We listened, but we were firm in our position. Our response was clear and forceful and there was no debate. Andoni has a clause, and from there I can’t tell you more.”
This clearly is a message to Leeds that no matter what, they intend on keeping Iraola at the club and there will be no more discussions surrounding it.
It makes sense for Leeds to look elsewhere even though they’re now lo longer pursuing the services of Alfred Schreuder.
Having attended the game against Manchester United, many thought that he was going to be named the Leeds boss, but the hierarchy have decided to pull the plug on it. [BBC]
Leeds may now think twice before approaching Rayo even if it’s in the summer as they do not seem willing to discuss the exit of Iraola.
The best chance of him moving to Elland Road is if he doesn’t pen an extension there and will then be free to move to Leeds.
In other Leeds United news, click here to see breaking, around-the-clock updates on Leeds’ search for a new manager in our interactive live blog.
Be sure to follow MOT Leeds News on Facebook and Twitter to stay up to date with all the latest, breaking news from Elland Road.