Iraola Commits to Bournemouth Amid Tottenham Rumors, Targets FA Cup Semis

Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola is eyeing a historic FA Cup semi-final berth, while also addressing speculation about his future amid links to the Tottenham Hotspur job.

Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola was asked about the recent international debut of Dean Huijsen, who played for Spain during the recent break. Huijsen's impressive performances have also led to speculation about a potential move to Real Madrid. Iraola expressed pride in Huijsen's progress, but remained tight-lipped about the player's future. “It is not that we are surprised, he has been playing consistently and has performed very well. He has improved a lot even during the season. He has faced very difficult forwards, we knew we had a very good player.”

Right then boss, what are we saying about the new Performance Centre? 🔥 pic.twitter.com/T1DwGwND0Y

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When questioned about Huijsen's potential move to Real Madrid, Iraola diplomatically deflected the inquiry, suggesting that the player himself would be better equipped to address the speculation. “You will have to ask him,” Iraola said, choosing not to fuel the rumors surrounding Huijsen's future.

Iraola was then asked about recent reports linking him to the Tottenham Hotspur job, which has been under scrutiny due to manager Ange Postecoglou's struggles this season. Iraola reaffirmed his commitment to Bournemouth, emphasizing his focus on the task at hand. “I want to do my job the best I can, I don't know where we will finish. If I don't do it well, they will find someone else. I am happy here.”

Iraola also highlighted the significance of Bournemouth's upcoming FA Cup quarter-final match against Manchester City, which presents a historic opportunity for the club to reach the semi-finals for the first time. “We have a great opportunity to reach the semi-finals for the first time, it would be amazing for me personally and for the club. We will try to give the best level we have,” Iraola said, underscoring his team's determination to make the most of this chance.

Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has expressed his excitement and optimism as his team prepares to face Manchester City in the FA Cup quarter-finals this weekend. Iraola recognizes the significance of this match, not just for the team's current season but also in the context of the club's history.

Iraola's Bournemouth side has already achieved a notable milestone by reaching the quarter-finals, equalling the club's best-ever run in the FA Cup. The Cherries have never lifted the coveted trophy, and Iraola is well aware of the opportunity that lies ahead. He believes that this match presents a “big opportunity” for his team to make a statement and potentially create history.

Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola provided a positive update on his team's injury situation ahead of their FA Cup quarter-final clash against Manchester City this Sunday. Iraola confirmed that all players have returned to training, including Marcus Tavernier and Julian Araujo, who have been working with the team for a couple of weeks. While Tavernier is not yet fit to play a full 90-minute game, Iraola is hopeful that he can still contribute to the team. “They are all back, they have trained today. We've worked well a couple of weeks with Marcus (Tavernier), with Julian (Araujo), it is good news. Marcus cannot play a 90-minute game, but he can be in the squad and help us.”

Iraola then turned his attention to the historic opportunity that awaits his team on Sunday. A win against Manchester City would propel Bournemouth into the FA Cup semi-finals for the first time in their history. Iraola acknowledged the magnitude of the task ahead, but emphasized the importance of seizing this chance. “I think we have a big opportunity this weekend, anyone who steps on the pitch has to be ready to give everything, and even that might not be enough to beat City. The work for everyone is huge, but the chance to play at Wembley - for City it is less important as they play there a lot, but for us it is huge.”

Iraola also reflected on Bournemouth's surprise 2-1 league win over Manchester City in November, and whether his team can replicate that performance. While acknowledging that the draw cannot be changed, Iraola hopes that his team can recapture the level of performance that earned them a memorable victory earlier in the season. “The draw we cannot change, once it is finished it is what we have. We are in a different moment, we hope we are close to the level we give that day (in November), it is the only way we have a chance.”