The managerial merry-go-round is spinning at full speed this summer, and one name stands out above the rest: Andoni Iraola. After announcing his departure from AFC Bournemouth last month, the Basque coach has become the most sought-after tactician in European football. But for Premier League giants Manchester United and Chelsea, it looks like the chase is about to end in disappointment.
Iraola's future initially seemed destined for Athletic Club, following the news that Ernesto Valverde would step aside. However, the San Mamés side had a different plan in motion, swiftly appointing former Borussia Dortmund boss Edin Terzic this week. That left the door wide open for other suitors—and the rumour mill has been relentless ever since.
According to reports from El Chiringuito, Iraola is now on the verge of signing with Crystal Palace. While Chelsea have expressed serious interest, the 41-year-old isn't entirely sold on the Blues' proposal. And who can blame him? Stamford Bridge has been a revolving door for managers this season, with three different coaches taking the helm. The club currently languishes in ninth place, facing the very real prospect of missing out on European football entirely. The controversial sacking of Enzo Maresca, followed by Liam Rosenior's dismissal last month, has left assistant Calum McFarlane in interim charge until the summer—hardly a picture of stability.
Palace, by contrast, offer a more settled environment and a project that Iraola reportedly trusts. For a coach who has built his reputation on tactical discipline and player development, that kind of long-term vision is a powerful draw.
Over at Old Trafford, the situation is equally fluid. Michael Carrick has steadied the ship as interim manager, guiding Manchester United to Champions League qualification. Yet the club's hierarchy is still evaluating options for the permanent role, with Iraola high on their shortlist. But with Palace closing in, United may need to look elsewhere.
For fans of both Manchester United and Chelsea, this is a familiar story: a top managerial target slipping through their fingers. As the summer transfer window heats up, all eyes will be on Selhurst Park to see if Iraola becomes the next architect of Palace's ambitious rebuild.