Premier League1 hour ago2 minute read

Iraola Faces Tricky Bournemouth Return as Liverpool Manager

Andoni Iraola prepares to face his former club Bournemouth as unbeaten Liverpool look to exploit extra rest days.

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A Strange Reunion at the Vitality

Andoni Iraola is preparing for a unique challenge this weekend. The Spaniard is taking his unbeaten Liverpool side to Bournemouth. It is a club he knows very well. Iraola guided the Cherries into Europe for the first time last season before taking the Liverpool job.

Now six games into his reign at Anfield, Iraola admits the upcoming match will feel different. He is looking forward to seeing his former players and staff. He said he is looking forward to meeting them and hugging them, calling them players he loves and staff he appreciates.

However, he knows his old team will pose a tough test. Iraola said, "It is going to be a tricky one. They know, obviously, very well what we are trying to do." He added that he also knows their strengths and weaknesses, meaning both sides have their own advantages. He wants his team to be as ruthless as possible.

Rest Advantage and Squad Updates

Liverpool should have fresher legs for Sunday. They have had two extra days of rest compared to their hosts. Liverpool beat Tottenham in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday. Meanwhile, Bournemouth made their Europa League debut against Real Sociedad on Thursday.

Iraola believes this scheduling gives his side an edge. Still, he knows how difficult it is to win at the Vitality Stadium. He pointed out that when you see the number of games Bournemouth have lost in a long while, you realise how tough they are to beat.

One player who has settled quickly under Iraola is Ronald Araújo. The defender joined Liverpool on a season long loan from Barcelona, where he was captain. Iraola has been impressed by his fitness and versatility. The Uruguay international can play at right back or centre back. Iraola praised his positive spirit and is now encouraging him to learn the language to help lead the team on the pitch.

What it means for the next game

AFC Bournemouth vs Liverpool (Premier League, Sun, 20 Sep): AFC Bournemouth win 33%, draw 25%, Liverpool win 42%; expected goals 1.46 to 1.66. Our safest pick: Over 1.5 goals.