Former England midfielder Jamie Redknapp has expressed his utter bewilderment at Manchester United's apparent reluctance to make an immediate move for Bournemouth's highly-rated manager, Andoni Iraola.
Redknapp's Puzzlement Over United's Interim Plan
The Sky Sports pundit's comments come in the wake of United's decision to sack manager Ruben Amorim at the start of the week, following a turbulent 14-month tenure. Amorim had seemingly signalled his impending exit after a 1-1 draw with Leeds, where he launched a fierce critique of the club's hierarchy, stressing his desire to be a 'manager' and not 'just a coach'.
With the hunt for a permanent successor underway, names like Crystal Palace's Oliver Glasner and ex-England boss Gareth Southgate have been linked. However, it is understood the club will first appoint an interim manager, with former United bosses Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Michael Carrick in discussions for a return to Old Trafford while Darren Fletcher acts as caretaker.
Speaking ahead of United's Premier League clash with Burnley, Redknapp revealed his astonishment that the Red Devils were not targeting Iraola. "I'm such a big fan of his and I've got no doubt he's one of the best, most elite managers in world football," Redknapp stated. "Manchester United are talking about getting Ole Gunnar Solskjaer back as an interim… I don't understand why they wouldn't try and get him. It absolutely baffles me."
Why United Should Look Beyond Bournemouth's Recent Form
Some reports suggest United may be waiting until the end of the season when Iraola's contract at the Vitality Stadium expires. Redknapp, however, insists the club cannot afford to wait, urging them to see past Bournemouth's recent difficult run of form over a tricky winter period.
"Bournemouth's my former club and I don't want to see him leave Bournemouth where he's done such a good job," he conceded. "But he was second in the league earlier this season, lost three of the back four, had a really difficult run with injuries etcetera. He's an elite manager and I just cannot understand why Manchester United wouldn't go for him."
Redknapp argued that if Iraola's Bournemouth side were still sitting second in the table, United would be pursuing him aggressively. He believes the recent dip in results should not cost the Spaniard what he termed a "big opportunity" at a club of United's stature.
Solskjaer's Potential Return Questioned
The pundit was also highly sceptical of the prospect of Solskjaer returning for a second spell, even on a temporary basis. When asked if any other Premier League club, including Bournemouth, would consider appointing the Norwegian, Redknapp was emphatic: "Absolutely no chance! No one else in the Premier League would. I like Ole, everyone likes Ole, but why's he not got a job in the Premier League since he left Besiktas?"
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Solskjaer is "open" and "ready" for a potential return, four years after his dismissal. During his first stint, which lasted 168 matches across all competitions, Solskjaer achieved a win percentage of 54.2%, with 91 victories. In the Premier League alone, his win rate stood at 51.4%.
The debate over United's next managerial move continues, with Redknapp's strong advocacy for Iraola adding a significant voice to the conversation as the club navigates a critical period of transition.
