Mr Viral
Andoni Iraola’s side went unbeaten against Man Utd in the Premier League this season (Picture: Getty)
AFC Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola has vowed to help his former club Athletic Bilbao beat Manchester United in the Europa League semi-finals.
The Red Devils face the La Liga side on Thursday at the San Mames Stadium in the first leg, hoping to continue their push for this season’s title.
United have endured a horrific campaign domestically but could save their season if they manage to get their hands on the Europa League trophy.
Iraola, though, who has a long association with Athletic Bilbao, will hold talks with Ernesto Valverde about how to eliminate Ruben Amorim’s side.
Iraola helped Bournemouth clinch a 3-0 victory over United at Old Trafford this season before the sides drew 1-1 at the Vitality Stadium on Sunday.
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Speaking after the match, Cherries head coach Iraola was quizzed if he would get on the phone to Athletic Bilbao manager Valverde to share his tactical insight on the Red Devils before the Europa League semi-finals.
‘Yes, probably we will speak,’ Iraola confirmed. ‘We have a very good relationship.’
Andoni Iraola has a long association with Athletic Bilbao (Picture: Getty)
Iraola played over 500 games for Athletic Bilbao before he entered management and worked under Valverde in his previous spell in charge.
‘He (Valverde) has probably been the most special coach I’ve ever had and I wish him the best,’ Iraola added.
‘We are very lucky, the Athletic Club supporters, to have him right now. I hope he goes all the way and wins it, because he fully deserves it.
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