News Focus
- Andoni Iraola spoke with AC Milan officials more than seven days ago.
- The talks began before the club sacked Max Allegri and missed the Champions League.
- Unai Emery of Aston Villa remains another strong option for the Rossoneri.
- Milan dismissed four key staff members after failing to secure a top-four finish.
- Xavi and Thiago Motta also feature on the managerial shortlist.
Italian broadcaster Sky Sport Italia reports that Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola held discussions with AC Milan over a week ago. These talks took place before the club failed to qualify for the Champions League and removed Max Allegri from his post.
Several sources in both Italy and England now name Iraola as the leading choice to take charge at the San Siro next season. The Spaniard has reportedly stated he will leave Bournemouth for a fresh challenge. He recently guided the Cherries to Europa League qualification.
The Rossoneri completed a major clear-out of their backroom team this week. They sacked head coach Allegri, sporting director Igli Tare, chief executive Giorgio Furlani and technical director Geoffrey Moncada. This followed their failure to finish in the Serie A top four.
However, transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio suggests Milan contacted Iraola last week. This indicates the club planned to dismiss Allegri even if they had secured Champions League football.
RedBird Capital owner Gerry Cardinale views Iraola as the favourite for the role. But other candidates remain under consideration. Former Barcelona boss Xavi features on the list despite two years away from the dugout.
Aston Villa manager Unai Emery also appears as a target. He recently won the Europa League with the Birmingham club. Former Juventus coach Thiago Motta and Bologna boss Vincenzo Italiano complete the shortlist. Italiano currently faces links with a move to Napoli.