Andoni Iraola Makes No Excuses Ahead of Brighton Clash Amid Zabarnyi Suspension

Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola is waiting to hear the outcome of Ilya Zabarnyi's appeal ahead of their match against Brighton.

Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has spoken about his team's preparation for their upcoming match against Brighton on Tuesday night. A win for the Cherries could propel them to third place in the Premier League, surpassing Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest. However, the task will not be easy, especially considering Brighton's recent form, with three consecutive wins under manager Fabian Hurzeler, including two impressive victories over Chelsea.

Iraola provided an update on his team's fitness ahead of the match, stating that he will have a better idea of who is available after training later in the day. “I don't know. We are training this evening and we will see how they have recovered,” Iraola said. "Yesterday was a recovery day so today we will see how the players train and who is available. Right now, I don't know." The Bournemouth manager was cautious about making any predictions about his team's lineup until he has a clearer picture of their fitness levels.

Iraola also addressed the potential suspension of defender Ilya Zabarnyi, who was sent off against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday. Zabarnyi's absence would be a significant blow to Bournemouth, who have been solid at the back this season. Iraola acknowledged the challenge of replacing Zabarnyi but did not elaborate on who might take his place. The Bournemouth manager's comments suggest that he is focused on finding solutions to the challenges his team faces, rather than making excuses.

Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has expressed uncertainty about the availability of defender Ilya Zabarnyi for their upcoming match against Brighton. Zabarnyi was sent off against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday, and Iraola is waiting to hear the outcome of their appeal. “We will see (who will play) because we still have an appeal,” Iraola said. “We will see if he can play tomorrow, I still don't know. They are going to decide in a couple of hours.”

A tough game ahead 👊 pic.twitter.com/NqJZtyHVht

— AFC Bournemouth 🍒 (@afcbournemouth) February 24, 2025

Iraola emphasized that his team must adapt to the challenges they face, whether due to injury or suspension. He expressed confidence in his players' ability to step up and fill the gaps. “These things happen to every team whether it's with injury or suspension and we have to adapt,” Iraola noted. “Everyone has shown that they can step up. There are no excuses. I will try to make the right call.”

Iraola was also asked about Liverpool's corner routine that led to their opening goal against Manchester City, and whether it was similar to Bournemouth's earlier in the season. Iraola denied any responsibility for Liverpool's tactic, stating, “I saw their corner routine but it is definitely not something that we invented. I don't take any responsibility for that, no.”