Could Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola Be Pep Guardiola’s Successor at Manchester City?
Andoni Iraola, the manager of Bournemouth, has made a significant impact in the Premier League following a challenging start. Despite failing to secure a win in his first nine matches, he transformed the team’s performance, achieving a club-record 48 points in the 2023-24 season. Last season, he further improved this record by guiding Bournemouth to a total of 56 points.
Despite losing key players such as Kepa Arrizabalaga and Dean Huijsen, Iraola has maintained a competitive edge. The recent victory against Nottingham Forest, with a scoreline of 2-0, placed Bournemouth in the second position in the league. If they continue their current form, they could finish the season with 76 points, suggesting the potential for Champions League qualification.
Iraola’s Tactical Brilliance
Bournemouth has excelled in pressing tactics under Iraola. They lead the Premier League in goals from high turnovers, scoring ten in total. The team has also shown resilience, making the highest number of ball recoveries this season at 462. This impressive performance underscores Iraola’s ability to rally his players, creating a strong collective spirit within the squad.
Future Prospects for Iraola
The 43-year-old manager’s growing success raises questions about his future. His achievements have not gone unnoticed, particularly by Manchester City, who may consider him a candidate to succeed Pep Guardiola. Given Iraola’s innovative approach, he could effectively lead any high-profile team.
Bournemouth’s Points Under Iraola
| Season | Points | Points per Game |
|---|---|---|
| 2023-24 | 48 | 1.26 |
| 2024-25 | 56 | 1.47 |
| 2025-26 | 18* | 2.00 |
Saturday’s match against Manchester City at the Vitality Stadium presents an opportunity for Iraola to showcase his capabilities. Previously, Bournemouth defeated City 2-1, demonstrating their tactical proficiency. City dominated possession during that game, yet struggled to create scoring opportunities, with Bournemouth exploiting defensive lapses effectively.
Looking ahead, if Bournemouth continues to perform under Iraola’s guidance, the prospect of his transition to a top-tier club like Manchester City seems increasingly likely. With the right support and resources, he could replicate his success on an even larger stage.
