According to The Athletic, Leeds United are keen on Andoni Iraola after sacking Jesse Marsch.
The Whites decided to part ways with Marsch on Monday after a defeat to Nottingham Forest at the weekend left them staring relegation in the face.
Iraola’s potential arrival at Leeds is not only interesting due to his past connection with Marcelo Bielsa, but also due to his past relationship with Jack Harrison – a player currently on the books at Elland Road.
The two, of course, played together at NYCFC, where Iraola was playing in the latter stages of his career.
Since leaving New York, Iraola has praised Harrison’s development at Leeds, stating that he has thrived since arriving at Elland Road.
Iraola impressed by Harrison
Iraola spoke about Harrison when reminiscing on his playing career with Coaches’ Voice.
“Then there were some other players at different stages of their careers. Angeliño, who has gone on to play at RB Leipzig, and also a very young Jack Harrison, who has thrived at Leeds under Marcelo Bielsa – a coach, by the way, who I was lucky enough to work with at Athletic. And I say lucky because it was incredible to be with him,” Iraola wrote.
Intriguing
If Iraola were to replace Jesse Marsch, it would be interesting to see how he could potentially impact Harrison’s development going forwards.
A relationship between a manager and a player can have a significant impact on any individual’s performance, and if Iraola were to arrive with a pre-existing relationship with Harrison, it could be a huge boost for the winger who has been struggling for form as of late.
He has already proven his managerial credentials at Rayo Vallecano, where he has led the team to a surprising 8th place in La Liga.
Given that he already knows Harrison and is a disciple of Marcelo Bielsa, this could be an inspired appointment from Leeds.
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