The decision to replace Gary O’Neil with Andoni Iraola has divided opinion, but Bournemouth’s American owners have a vision for the club. Can the Cherries solidify their place in the Premier League in 2023-24?
• Manager: Andoni Iraola
• Stadium: Vitality Stadium
• Last Season: 15th
Having made a name for himself in Spain, Andoni Iraola will lead Bournemouth into the new campaign.
The former Rayo Vallecano manager is renowned for his innovative tactics, but he will have to win over the fans without delay.
After gaining promotion from the Championship in 2022, Bournemouth were among the favourites for relegation last term.
However, the south coast side ended up finishing 15th – five points clear of the drop zone.
Scott Parker was sacked after just four games, having overseen heavy defeats to Manchester City (4-0), Arsenal (3-0) and Liverpool (9-0).
Gary O’Neil was initially appointed on an interim basis, but the 40-year-old was handed the role on a permanent basis in November.
Despite guiding the Cherries to seven victories across the final 16 matches – renewing the club’s Premier League status in the process – O'Neil was sacked at the end of the season, leaving many fans bewildered at the decision.
Following the departure of key midfielder Jefferson Lerma – who recently joined Crystal Palace – Philip Billing will be expected to set up as Bournemouth’s engine-room enforcer.
Dominic Solanke proved his Premier League quality last season, racking up seven goals and seven assists.
Meanwhile, Marcus Tavernier, Marcos Senesi and Dango Outtara impressed in spell, as did former Barcelona and Juventus goalkeeper Neto.
The Cherries have also been busy in the transfer market this summer, bringing in Hamed Junior Traore from Sassuolo for €25.62m, Romain Faivre from Lyon for €15m and Justin Kluivert from Roma for €11.2m.
Given that Bournemouth possess one of the weakest squads in the Premier League, Andoni Iraola’s main aim will be to keep the club in the division. However, fans will be expecting more after the managerial change.
Having guided La Liga outfit Rayo Vallecano to 12th in 2021-22 and 11th last season, the Spanish boss has proven that he’s got what it takes to manage at the top level.
That said, the Premier League is undoubtedly stronger than La Liga. Iraola will be hopeful of transforming the Cherries in 2023-24, although a mid-table finish would be seen as a success.
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