Iraola Welcomes Back Suspended Defenders, but Kluivert Remains a Doubt

Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola discusses the availability of key players, including Justin Kluivert, and refuses to comment on transfer speculation surrounding Milos Kerkez and Dean Huijsen.

Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola addressed the media ahead of the team's upcoming match against Ipswich Town, acknowledging the Cherries' current four-match winless streak in the league.

Iraola provided an update on the team's status, citing the short turnaround since their FA Cup game against Manchester City. “We are still not sure. We still have to train this afternoon. It's still less than 48 hours since the FA Cup game against Manchester City,” he said, emphasizing the need for caution.

The skipper ❤️ pic.twitter.com/02SutrA8rR

— AFC Bournemouth 🍒 (@afcbournemouth) April 1, 2025

The manager expressed optimism about the team's overall readiness, despite some players experiencing minor issues. “Some players finished with some issues - normal issues. I expect them to be ready,” Iraola stated.

However, Iraola admitted that Justin Kluivert's availability is a major concern. “Probably, Justin (Kluivert) is the one we are more in doubt of, because he finished with some issues against City and we have to check today if he is ready to go or if at least he can help us with some minutes against Ipswich,” he explained.

Iraola concluded by expressing hope that the rest of the squad will be ready for the match against Ipswich. “I hope everyone else can be ready again for tomorrow,” he said.

Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola will welcome back defenders Milos Kerkez and Dean Huijsen from suspension for the upcoming match, and he highlighted the significant contribution they make to the team. “It's good to have them available again. They have given us high levels and they are in a good moment of form,” Iraola said, emphasizing their importance to the squad.

Focussed on tomorrow night 😤 pic.twitter.com/UyOohvSZFO

— AFC Bournemouth 🍒 (@afcbournemouth) April 1, 2025

However, Iraola also acknowledged that the team's offense has been weakened in recent times. “We are probably now weaker in the offensive side. But it's difficult to have the perfect starting 11 and we have to adapt game by game,” he noted, highlighting the challenges of maintaining a balanced team.

When asked about the recent speculation linking Kerkez and Huijsen to top clubs like Real Madrid and Liverpool, Iraola declined to comment. “I don't comment. For me, I don't have to give other clubs any comments,” he stated, maintaining his focus on the team's upcoming match rather than addressing transfer rumors.