It had looked like Chelsea had lost their chance to bring in Andoni Iraola. Reports in Spain emerged that he was closing in on a move to Crystal Palace. Well, that would have been an interesting choice indeed when you consider the links with the Blues as well as Manchester United.
Most would view leaving Bournemouth for Crystal Palace as a move sideways. Perhaps even backwards. And now, it looks like the rumours of a move to Selhurst Park being close are not accurate.
According to Ben Jacobs, the suggestions that Iraola is close to agreeing a deal to take over as Crystal Palace manager are wide of the mark.
Iraola is a dream target for Crystal Palace. But nothing is advancing as of now. The Bournemouth manager will assess all options, and is also on Chelsea’s shortlist.
Iraola to Crystal Palace is not close, Chelsea switch still possible
So, that keeps the Iraola option alive for Chelsea. Of course, it does not mean that he is the first choice. In fact, reports from earlier this morning suggested that Xabi Alonso was being viewed as the main candidate for the role.
That being said, it will be difficult to convince the Spaniard to take up the job. It is very possible that he might wait for other opportunities to open up.
Chelsea’s recent performances and decisions mean that they might no longer be viewed as a premier destination by managers, as they once were. As a result, it is important for the club to have a few quality options on the radar. Someone like Iraola could be a decent cover.
Iraola would not be the perfect fit for Chelsea
To be very honest, in my eyes, Iraola would not be the perfect fit for this Chelsea squad. There is no way that the club can change up far too many players. Neither should they, as there needs to some sense of stability. As a result, the best idea would be to bring in a manager whose style suits them.
Iraola might not be that guy. He likes to play a high-intensity, pressing style of football. On the other hand, Chelsea have been outrun in every game they have taken part in. Also, they have found most of their success playing possession-based football.
That does not mean it could not work out. It very well might. But there would be an element of risk there. And there is no scope for error if you are BlueCo going into this summer.
