Chelsea are searching for a new permanent head coach following the sacking of Liam Rosenior, and Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has been quickly linked with the role
Andoni Iraola has refused to be drawn on the possibility of holding talks with Chelsea over becoming their new head coach, following the dismissal of Liam Rosenior. The Spaniard was quizzed on his potential interest after Bournemouth’s draw with Leeds United on Wednesday.
The Blues are searching for a new manager after parting company with Rosenior, who barely lasted three months in charge at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea’s hierarchy are now taking stock before making their move for a new permanent appointment.
Iraola has swiftly emerged as a leading candidate to fill Rosenior’s shoes, having already confirmed he will be leaving Bournemouth at the end of the campaign. Despite this, he has steadfastly refused to entertain any talk of a move to west London.
When asked whether he would be open to speaking with Chelsea, he replied: “No, I think I said it when I announced I was not continuing here. For me, now, it’s about Bournemouth.
“Four games. We have an incredible position, (an) incredible fight (ahead).
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“(This) past week, you were asking me about other clubs. I don’t know exactly which ones, but also, as a sign of respect for Bournemouth, I cannot talk right now about my future because it’s not what worries the Bournemouth supporters.”
Calum McFarlane has been appointed to lead Chelsea until the end of the season. The interim manager was installed on Rosenior’s coaching staff following a short spell in the dugout after Enzo Maresca departed the club in January.
McFarlane presided over a draw with Manchester City and a loss to Fulham on that occasion. He is poised for an extended run over the coming month, having begun the campaign as under-21s manager, as the Blues pursue European qualification and FA Cup success.
Chelsea outlined their strategy when announcing Rosenior’s departure. They said: “Calum McFarlane will take charge of the team as Interim Head Coach until the end of the season with support from existing Club backroom staff, as we strive to achieve European qualification and progress in the FA Cup.
“As the Club works to bring stability to the Head Coach position, we will undertake a process of self-reflection to make the right long-term appointment.”
McFarlane is charged with reversing a dismal run of five straight defeats without finding the net, with Chelsea in eighth place, beyond the European spots, and at risk of seeing Brentford and Everton overtake them this weekend.
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