Six standout games from Iraola's Bournemouth spell
Source: bournemouthecho.co.uk
TL;DR
- Article lists six standout matches from Andoni Iraola's time managing AFC Bournemouth before his season-end departure.
- Highlights include historic wins over Manchester City and Newcastle, plus hat-tricks by Justin Kluivert and Dango Ouattara.
- These games showcase comebacks, thumping victories, and firsts against top clubs that defined his Cherries tenure.
The story at a glance
With Andoni Iraola set to leave AFC Bournemouth at the end of the season, the article picks out six of his best games at the club. It covers dramatic comebacks, record wins, and historic results against big teams like Manchester City and Newcastle. This look back comes right after news of his exit and speculation on replacements like Ipswich's Kieran McKenna.
Key points
- Luton Town comeback (Vitality Stadium): Trailed 3-0 at halftime; Solanke, Zabarnyi, and Semenyo (brace) won it in the second half.
- Everton turnaround (Goodison Park): Down 2-0 after 80 minutes; Semenyo, Cook, and Sinisterra scored in nine minutes for a 3-2 win.
- Manchester City historic first (Vitality Stadium): Semenyo and Evanilson led 2-0; held on after Gvardiol's reply for club's first win over City.
- Newcastle masterclass (away): Injury-hit squad; Kluivert hat-trick and Kerkez goal beat former boss Eddie Howe.
- Nottingham Forest demolition (Dean Court): Top-form Forest routed 5-0; Kluivert opened, Ouattara hat-trick, Semenyo finished.
- Arsenal victory (Emirates, recent): Kroupi led, Scott winner after Gyokeres equaliser; complete performance vs league leaders.
Details and context
These matches span Iraola's two seasons and feature recurring stars like Antoine Semenyo (multiple goals) and dramatic shifts, such as the Luton game called one of the Premier League's greatest comebacks.
The Newcastle and Forest games came a week apart last season, showing peak form against strong sides with limited squads.
Recent Arsenal win underscores ongoing quality, with hopes for a Newcastle repeat this weekend.
Why it matters
Iraola's tenure brought memorable highs like first wins over top clubs and thrilling comebacks, boosting Bournemouth's Premier League standing. Fans and the club get a reminder of his impact amid his exit and replacement talk. Watch for his next move—links to Athletic Club, Real Madrid, or Liverpool—and who takes over at Cherries, with odds favouring Danny Rose and contenders like Howe or McKenna.