AFC Bournemouth vs Liverpool: Can Iraola's Rebuilt Squad Shine?
Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola acknowledges squad depth concerns ahead of Premier League opener against Liverpool on August 15. The team has lost key players, including Dean Huijsen and Milos Kerkez, and faces injury challenges. Iraola emphasizes preparing for the next season, saying, 'It's not about the next step, it's about preparing for the next season'.
“It's not about the next step, it's about preparing for the next season...”
Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola acknowledges that his team faces a tough challenge as they take on Liverpool in the Premier League opener, describing their current situation as “difficult.” The Cherries have had a challenging summer transfer window, losing key players such as goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga and defensive mainstays Dean Huijsen, Illia Zabarnyi, and Miloš Kerkez.
Injury concerns also loom large over the team, with several first-team players sidelined. Iraola mentioned that they're working to recover injured players, but the squad depth is currently a concern. Despite these setbacks, Iraola is focused on the upcoming match, emphasizing the significance of the challenge against Liverpool.
“We are taking the games game by game. We have Liverpool next. We are thin on numbers, so we try to recover players for that game,” Iraola said, highlighting the team's approach to managing their injuries and upcoming fixtures.
Iraola also praised Liverpool, calling them the best team not only in England but also in Europe this season. He expects a tough match but sees it as a valuable challenge for his team.
Potential Lineup Against Liverpool
Miloš Kerkez could face his former club, Liverpool, in the upcoming match, adding an intriguing element to the fixture. Meanwhile, Bournemouth has welcomed new signing Bafodé Diakité, who has been training with the team and is reportedly “physically ready” according to manager Andoni Iraola.
Diakité's Availability
“He has trained for two days, he has trained well,” Iraola said. “He is physically ready to go, just a matter of getting the concepts quickly. If not tomorrow, then next week.” This suggests that while Diakité is fit, the decision on whether he'll start against Liverpool remains to be seen.
On Kerkez, Iraola joked: “I hope he doesn't have the best game tomorrow!
“I wish him all the best. He did very well for us the past two seasons.”
Attacking Options Limited for Bournemouth
Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola faces challenges in attack ahead of the Premier League opener against Liverpool. Justin Kluivert is sidelined with a calf injury, while Luis Sinisterra is unlikely to feature as he explores a potential transfer. Dango Ouattara, currently a target for Brentford, is training with the team, but Iraola hasn't decided whether he'll join the squad traveling to Anfield.
Iraola said, “Pre-season is always the time for preparation but I think it has been a good pre-season. We travelled to the United States and played three very difficult games.
“We are in the first game and a lot of people will be watching us; it will be a big game. It's going to be a good test for us and a place where we can see where we are at.”
Preparing for the Future
Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola acknowledges that his team is currently short of options, emphasizing the need for the management to be active in the final weeks of the summer transfer window. As the team prepares for their Premier League opener against Liverpool, Iraola's focus is on building a stronger squad for the long term. “It's not about the next step, it's about preparing for the next season,” he said, highlighting his strategic approach to team development.
"I hope we are at the level because it's going to be a big game."
— AFC Bournemouth 🍒 (@afcbournemouth) August 14, 2025
Watch the head coach's press conference ahead of the start of the #PL season 👀
With several key players departing, including Dean Huijsen, Milos Kerkez, and Illia Zabarnyi, Bournemouth's squad dynamics have changed significantly. The club has already made some signings, including goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic from Chelsea and left-back Adrien Truffert from Rennes. However, Iraola believes that more work needs to be done to ensure the team's success in the upcoming season.
Recent Transfers:
Signings:
- Djordje Petrovic (£25m from Chelsea)
- Adrien Truffert (£14.4m from Rennes)
- Bafodé Diakité (recently joined, details not fully disclosed)
Departures:
- Dean Huijsen (£50m to Real Madrid)
- Milos Kerkez (£40m to Liverpool)
- Illia Zabarnyi (deal with Tottenham Hotspur reportedly close, £55m)
- Jaidon Anthony (£8m to Burnley)
- Mark Travers (£4m to Everton)
Iraola's comments suggest that the team is prioritizing long-term growth over immediate needs, which may involve making strategic signings in the coming weeks.
“We are not where we want to be (with transfers) but there have been a lot of changes and when the transfer market ends, there will have been some important movements. I hope we can adjust and do it quickly so that we can focus on the beginning of the season.”
Upcoming Match Details:
- Date: August 15, 2025
- Time: 20:00 WAT
- Venue: Anfield, Liverpool
- Teams: Liverpool FC vs. AFC Bournemouth
Working hard ahead of opening night 👊 pic.twitter.com/xx8f08V9cH
— AFC Bournemouth 🍒 (@afcbournemouth) August 14, 2025
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