Rayo Vallecano boss Andoni Iraola has told Spanish newspaper Marca that he is open to extending his stay at the La Liga club – but left the door open on a potential exit when his contract ends, amid reports linking him with Leeds.
Iraola, 40, was linked with a move to Leeds in February after the club decided to sack Jesse Marsch, following the 1-0 loss to Nottingham Forest. But Iraola chose to remain at Rayo, who are pushing for Europe in Spain’s top tier.
That is despite The Mail reporting that Leeds were willing to spend £7m to bring Iraola to Yorkshire. Instead, he has stayed at Rayo in their push for European football – a potentially wonderful achievement given the lack of budget.
However, his contract ends in the summer. Iraola seems to work in a similar way to Marcelo Bielsa when it comes to his contract. Indeed, Bielsa only extended his deal at the end of the season by another year, while at Leeds United.
Iraola worked under Bielsa at Athletic Bilbao during his playing career and is seen as a disciple of the Argentine. Asked about his future and the decision that will be made in the summer – Iraola responded, keeping the door open.
“My priority this summer is to achieve the objective with Rayo. We still have a lot of points to get. If we hit the target, we’ll have something to think about, but you may not. Then, you may not have much to think about,” Iraola said.
Rayo boss Andoni Iraola leaves door open on exit amid Leeds reports
Firstly, it must be said that Javi Gracia has done a wonderful job. If he continues in the way he has done in his first four League games as Leeds boss, you would expect Leeds to hand Gracia the role as manager moving forward.
But if Leeds limp over the line or do get relegated, then Leeds will be looking for a new gaffer. In the eventuality of relegation, Iraola will not be joining. If Leeds stay up, but Gracia goes – Iraola will be tempted. Time will tell, though.
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