A Strange Reunion for Iraola
Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola is set for an emotional but difficult return to Bournemouth this Sunday. Iraola left the Cherries after guiding them into European football last season. Now, six games into his tenure at Liverpool, his unbeaten side faces a tough test at the Vitality Stadium.
The Spaniard admits that facing his former players will feel different. He said he is looking forward to seeing the players and staff he appreciates so much. However, he insisted his main focus is to go there, be ruthless, and secure a win for his new team.
Tactical Battles and Rest Advantage
Iraola knows that Bournemouth will be prepared for his tactics. He pointed out that his former players know exactly what he is trying to do on the pitch. However, he also knows their strengths and weaknesses, making it an intriguing tactical battle.
Liverpool do have one clear advantage ahead of the match. They have had two extra days of rest. Liverpool played on Tuesday, beating Tottenham in the Carabao Cup. Meanwhile, Bournemouth played on Thursday in their Europa League debut against Real Sociedad. Iraola believes this extra recovery time should help his squad, though he knows how difficult it is to beat Bournemouth on their own turf.
Araujo Making an Instant Impact
One player who has settled quickly at Liverpool is Ronald Araujo. The Uruguay international joined the club on a season long loan from Barcelona, where he was previously the captain. He has already impressed his new manager with his fitness and ability to play in multiple positions.
Iraola has used Araujo at both right back and centre back. The manager praised his positive attitude and physical condition. Iraola is now encouraging the defender to learn English so he can communicate better with his teammates and share his experience on the pitch.
Predictions for these teams
Read next
- Football predictions today
- Jackpot predictions this week
- Premier League and every other league
- Premier League official website
Good to know: We are not paid for any link on this page.
Be the first to comment
Tell us who you think wins and why. Keep it friendly. Links are removed on their own.
Note: comments are the writer own opinion, not ours, and never a tip from us.
18+Read this before you bet
- There are no sure bets. Every tip on this page is a chance worked out from data about the next game. A tip at 70 percent still loses about three times in ten. Anyone selling a sure bet or a fixed match is lying.
- Betting is not income. Never bet to pay rent, school fees or a loan, and never borrow to bet, including from mobile loan apps.
- 18 and over only. Betting under 18 is illegal in Kenya.
- Use licensed bookmakers. Only bet with operators licensed by the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Kenya. Prices here can change before you bet, so check them first.
- Gambling can be addictive. If it stops being fun, stop. Read our responsible betting page or visit Responsible Gaming Federation of Kenya.
Good to know: We are not a bookmaker and we do not take bets. Full details are in our disclaimer.
