Andoni Iraola, the head coach of Rayo Vallecano, is being considered for the manager position at West Ham United.
Rayo Vallecano’s head coach, Andoni Iraola, is about to get a second Premier League offer for 2023.
Leeds United targeted the Basque manager earlier this year. They made him their top choice for replacing Jesse Marsch at Elland Road. They dream about signing him after an impressive 18 months in charge in Vallecas.
Despite their interest, Iraola turned down a mid-season move because he wanted to finish his contract with Rayo.
Iraola guided Rayo to a mid-table finish in his first La Liga season as manager, as well as a run to the Copa del Rey semi-finals.
Rayo’s good form has continued in 2022/23, with the club in contention for a European spot.
A choice may come soon because Iraola’s contract with Rayo expires in June. His former club which he coached, Athletic Bilbao is also showing interest on him.
West Ham will make an offer to Iraola as part of their summer replacement plan for David Moyes.
West Ham wants Iraola. Rayo want to meet with him this week to renew his contract. But the Premier League side wants him because of his record at Rayo.
Andoni Iraola Career Highlights: Retired after the 2016 season
Iraola joined NYCFC halfway through their first season. He couldn’t do much to keep the team from conceding 58 goals, which led the league. He’ll be hoping that a full preseason in the Bronx will allow him to demonstrate his pedigree. That includes a long career in Europe and appearances with the Spanish National Team at their peak.
Iraola Biography
Spanish Armada Over the course of 12 seasons, Iraola appeared in 510 games (406 league) and scored 38 goals for Bilbao. The Basque right back was a team staple, appearing in 30 or more league games in 11 seasons, including a career-high 38 in 2005-06. Iraola debuted for Bilbao as a 21-year-old against Barcelona in 2003 and went on to have a stellar La Liga career.
INTERNATIONAL Record: Played seven times for Spain between 2008 and 2011.