Andoni Iraola has declared a ‘state of cherrycidad’ at Bournemouth, but his future with the club is uncertain.
The ex-manager has turned ‘the cherries’ into the Premier League’s most in-form team, going 16 games unbeaten. They have not lost since their 2-3 defeat against Arsenal.
Bournemouth’s European Qualification Hopes
Bournemouth are close to equalling their record of 56 points from last season, also under Iraola. They currently have 55 points. They are also aiming to qualify for Europe for the first time in their 127-year history.
Bournemouth are currently sixth, which would qualify them for the Europa League. They have a two-point lead over Brighton, four over Brentford, and six over Chelsea and Everton.
Champions League qualification is also a possibility. For Bournemouth to finish sixth and qualify for the Champions League, Aston Villa would need to finish fifth and win the Europa League.
Iraola’s Departure
Iraola announced his departure from Bournemouth at the end of the season. He said he is focused on the last two matches, and wants to finish his three years at the club in the best way possible. He believes they have taken an important step forward but need more points.
Iraola will be replaced by Marco Rose.
The ‘Miracle’ at Bournemouth
Iraola and Tiago Pinto, Bournemouth’s sporting director, have overseen a transformation. Last summer, they lost their starting goalkeeper and sold Dango Ouattara for 42.8 million.
The club also received 172.4 million for three of their four starting defenders: Zabarnyi (63), Huijsen (62.5), and Kerkez (46.9). Antoine Semenyo was also transferred to the City in winter for 72 million.
Iraola said the new players have adapted quickly and the players who have been there for three seasons know what is needed in each match. He added that they know each other well.
One Bournemouth fan suggested Iraola might regret his decision to leave. Iraola responded by saying that it was not an easy decision to leave, but once he made it, he felt relief. He believes they have taken advantage of it in a positive way and have had excellent results since then, with the atmosphere improving.