Victor Orta responds when asked question about Leeds pursuit of Andoni Iraola

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Victor Orta has told Spanish media this week and was asked about Leeds United’s pursuit of manager Andoni Iraola – claiming Iraola was the “best possible” option, but did not explain why a move fell through.

Following the sacking of Jesse Marsch, Leeds were immediately linked with Iraola. The impressive Rayo Vallecano manager was at the top of a shortlist that also included Ange Postecoglou, Arne Slot, Carlos Corberan and others.

But having pursued Iraola for a couple of weeks, a move fell through. Rayo were desperate to keep hold of the boss that has guided them into a position in La Liga where Europe is possible. Since the Leeds links, Rayo have struggled.

Six games without a win has seen Rayo slip to eighth in the table. Still, a very impressive season given his side were tipped with relegation last summer. Asked about Leeds pursuing a move, Orta kept his cards close to his chest.

“When you fire a coach, a lot of circumstances are generated. Internally, we knew how to carry out the process and that process led us to the best possible port. Evaluating what happened in those weeks seems irrelevant to me.

“Because, there are many involved who wouldn’t benefit. I want to look ahead and be optimistic. As they taught me at Sevilla, whoever comes through the door is always the best for me and therefore I have the best coach possible.”

Victor Orta responds when asked about Leeds pursuit of Andoni Iraola

Iraola would have been a superb appointment, given his work at Rayo. But he is renowned for being a disciple of Marcelo Bielsa, and if he would have been anything like the Argentine at Leeds – relegation would be more likely.

Indeed, Javi Gracia has instilled a balance. More focus on controlling a game, defensive rigidity, while still having the same attacking output. Leeds have scored seven goals in his four games – totalling seven points from a possible 12.

The Whites have climbed to 14th in the Premier League table, ahead of Saturday’s trip to Arsenal and Gracia has made a superb start. Injuries are beginning to rack up – but so far, so good, under the ex-Watford manager.