While AFC Bournemouth approaches their third Premier League season since their promotion from the Championship in 2022, their performance in the last campaign showed a significant departure from the previous season.
The contrast in both playing style and squad composition is quite evident between the team managed primarily by Gary O’Neil in the 2022/23 season and the one overseen by Andoni Iraola in the 2023/24 season.
The current squad has developed its own distinctive identity, characterized by high intensity and a strong emphasis on pressing, at times employing extensive man-marking across the entire field. This approach sets them apart, but as other teams encounter it more frequently, they adapt and devise strategies to counter it.
This scenario is common among teams promoted from the Championship: their unfamiliarity initially provides an advantage, but as opponents become more acquainted with their style, they adjust accordingly. Often, these teams manage to survive their first Premier League season but encounter difficulties in the second, leading to relegation.
Could AFC Bournemouth face greater challenges next season due to their distinctive style of play?
Speaking to the Daily Echo, AFC Bournemouth head coach Andoni Iraola acknowledged this possibility:
“Yes, undoubtedly. Opponents will be aware of our core strategy and anticipate our approach, but I don’t view this negatively. Having a strong identity and a clear game plan is beneficial. Moreover, we can introduce small adjustments to enhance our versatility, and depending on the players, we can adopt different tactics.”
Iraola emphasized the value of having a defined strategy despite potential challenges. AFC Bournemouth will begin their season with an away match against Nottingham Forest on Saturday, August 17th, followed by their first home game on August 24th against Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United.
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