Andoni Iraola Bournemouth success – manager reveals two key fundamentals

Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has revealed the two fundamentals behind the club’s remarkable rise this season: recruitment and relentless pressing. Speaking to DAZN, with comments relayed by Marca, the Spaniard praised the Cherries’ scouting department while underlining the need to stay true to their high-energy identity on the pitch.

The South Coast club have collected 14 points from their opening seven matches — their best-ever Premier League start — and currently sit in the Champions League places. This comes despite a turbulent summer in which they lost three of their back four and were forced to change goalkeeper.

Rather than struggle, Bournemouth have thrived. New arrivals have adapted seamlessly, while Iraola’s attacking, high-pressing style has turned the Cherries into one of the league’s most entertaining sides.

Beyond transfers, Iraola stressed the non-negotiable identity that has carried Bournemouth forward: pressing with intensity and purpose. Data shows the Cherries are only behind Porto in Europe’s top five leagues for “most high-intensity runs per player per 90 minutes.” They also top the Premier League for ball recoveries and high recoveries.

“This is something we can’t lose. It’s part of our identity,” Iraola explained. “Sometimes it hurts us, but you have to take risks. We prioritise volume in our runs. In very close games where one chance decides it, we are not as strong. But in open matches, with space, we can exploit one-on-one situations outside and create chances.”

FootballPlace analyst John William says Bournemouth’s rise is no accident:

“Iraola has fused intelligent recruitment with a clear tactical identity. The scouting department gives him the tools, and the pressing system maximises those tools. Bournemouth may lack precision in tight, tactical matches, but in high-tempo contests they are among the most dangerous sides in the league.”

The Cherries will look to maintain momentum as the fixture list intensifies, with Iraola determined not to compromise on his team’s aggressive style. Upcoming matches will test whether Bournemouth’s pressing game can hold firm against more defensive opponents.

With their scouting model continuing to identify emerging talent, the club appears well placed to sustain progress. The big question is whether this blend of recruitment and high pressing can secure European football come May.

👉 Can Bournemouth’s high-intensity style carry them all the way to a top-four finish, or will the demands of the season eventually catch up with Iraola’s side?