Bournemouth’s impressive form under Iraola has ignited hopes of European football. Their recent performances suggest a serious challenge for a top spot.

New Delhi: When Bournemouth triumphed over Manchester United at Old Trafford last month, their supporters were signing about European qualification. For a club that has never experienced continental football this time, the dream might not be as far-fetched as it once seemed. Their latest victory against Everton has only strengthened their case.

The Cherries extended their unbeaten streak in the Premier League to eight matches when they defeated Toffees 1-0. The victory saw them climb to seventh spot in the league standings, just three points away from the top four. However, the race for European football remains fiercely competitive. Bournemouth are just four points ahead of fourth-placed Chelsea and one point ahead of Aston Villa who are eighth in the standings. 

At this stage last season, the gap was a more significant nine points. For Bournemouth, the question is whether they can maintain their momentum and claim one of those coveted European spots.

The Iraola effect

Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraloa during match against Leicester City. (Image via @Puretonazo ‘X’)

Andoni Iraola took over Bournemouth’s manager charge in June 2023, and since then, the Cherries have gone from strength to strength. Their statistics this season highlight just how far they have come. Bournemouth are unbeaten in eight consecutive Premier League games, marking their longest streak in the top flight. They have earned 33 points so far, which marks their highest-ever Premier League tally at this stage of the season.

The team’s 30 goals after 20 matches mark a new record for the club. The Cherries also lead the league in goals scored by substitutes, with 10 coming off the bench—their highest in any top-flight campaign.

Just 12 years ago, Bournemouth were competing in the third tier of English football. Now, they are a consistent Premier League presence and aiming higher, setting their sights on European qualification.

How the competition stands so far

Pep Guardiola reacts after win over Leicester City (Image via Reuters)

Bournemouth’s big test of their credentials will come in the coming weeks when they play Chelsea, Nottingham Forest, Newcastle, and Liverpool, which are currently ahead of them in the table. These matches will serve as a litmus test for their European credentials.

Chelsea were seen as title contenders earlier this season but have hit a rough patch recently. After a strong run of five consecutive wins, they failed to secure a victory in their last four games. After a recent draw with Crystal Palace, Manager Enzo Maresca remarked, “Two or three weeks ago, we were talking about the title race. For me, it’s not about the table; it’s about seeing how we can improve.”

Meanwhile, Newcastle sits in fifth spot and has found their rhythm. A win against Tottenham marked their fifth consecutive Premier League victory, showcasing their growing consistency.

The defending champions, Manchester City, are sixth in the standings after trashing West Ham 4-0 on Saturday and are beginning to recover from a poor spell. City have won back-to-back games, suggesting they might be regaining their form. However, Pep Guardiola remains cautious, saying, “We’re happy with the result, but you cannot say the old City is back yet.”

Eighth-placed Aston Villa also remains in the title race as they bolstered their hopes when they defeated Leicester City yesterday. Reflecting on their aspirations, Manager Unai Emery has said, “We needed those three points, and we’re challenging to be in the top 10 or top eight. The league is tough, with so many teams performing well.”

Afc Bournemouth can draw motivation from Aston Villa’s achievements last season when they secured a Champions League spot despite starting as underdogs. For the Cherries, the road ahead is undoubtedly challenging, but their performances under Iraola suggest that European football is no longer an unrealistic dream.

Fiza Narwal

Fiza Narwal is a passionate sports enthusiast and former tennis player. As a budding sports journalist, she infuses her love of the game into her writing. She enjoys capturing the spirit of athleticism as well as the human tales that underlie the triumphs and setbacks on the field.

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