Andoni Iraola
AFC Bournemouth, under the guidance of Andoni Iraola, has carved out a distinctive style of play in the Premier League. The team is known for its high pressing strategy, leading the league in possession won in the final third per match, averaging 4.7 times. Their fast-paced transitions aim to catch opponents off-guard, complemented by a strategic use of long balls, ranking fifth in the league for most accurate long balls per match with an average of 22.4. This tactical approach sets Bournemouth apart from other teams, particularly those vying for titles.
Andoni Iraola said: “I think we have our own identity and I think everyone knows when they are facing Bournemouth what they are going to face and I think it’s something that I like from our team, but obviously, I wouldn’t say no, this is the way to win games. But for other teams, the teams that are winning titles and were winning the Premier League, they don’t play like us. You know, they play differently because they have different needs, they have different players. And if you want to say they’ve shown that the most successful thing is play like they do. But not every team can play like this.”
Iraola’s philosophy embraces the diversity of football tactics, acknowledging that success can be achieved through various styles of play. His approach is not about mimicking the title-winning teams but rather about leveraging the unique strengths of his squad. This adaptability is a hallmark of his coaching, allowing Bournemouth to compete effectively even against more traditionally dominant teams.
He continued, when asked about how the game is changing: “I think there is room for everything in football. This is the nice thing of football. You can win in such different ways. And Pep [Guardiola] is very, very good. So he can adapt. He can change systems. He does adjustments in every game, 15 adjustments that we don’t notice sometimes, and just small tweaks. And he will try to win like everyone else, and he will adapt to the players he has, if they are able to dominate the game or not. And so you have to survive also. And you have to find ways to damage the opposition. Sometimes without the ball. But for me, it’s not a tendency. No. I think the good thing about football is this. We play different ways and, you know, you never know who’s going to win.”
Iraola’s admiration for Pep Guardiola’s tactical flexibility underscores his belief in the importance of adaptability in football. He appreciates the subtle adjustments that can make a significant impact on a match’s outcome. Despite not having a single managerial influence, Iraola credits Ernesto Valverde as a significant influence in his career, highlighting the importance of learning from various sources.
Iraola admitted he doesn’t necessarily have one manager who stands out as a direct inspiration for how he plays. Asked if he did have a ‘guru’ for tactics, Iraola said: “When they asked me about this, for me, the most influential manager that I’ve had has been Ernesto Valverde. I always say, because I’ve had him also when I started playing in my debut, at the end of my career. And I’ve taken a lot of things from him, but I know I speak with him once a year. It’s not that I call him after the games and. And we discuss, but no, I wouldn’t say no one, no one else in particular.”
Iraola’s approach at Bournemouth is a testament to his belief in the power of a unique tactical identity. His emphasis on high pressing and strategic long balls has positioned Bournemouth as a formidable opponent, showcasing that success in football can be achieved through diverse and innovative strategies.
About The Author
