Why Andoni Iraola’s ultra-aggressive Bournemouth are underachieving and could force Liverpool to switch tactics
Why Andoni Iraola’s ultra-aggressive Bournemouth are underachieving and could force Liverpool to switch tactics
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BOURNEMOUTH have defied expectations to be one of the Premier League's great heavy-hitting underdogs so far this season. Under Andoni Iraola's tutelage, the Cherries find themselves 7th in the league and on a 12-match unbeaten run in all competitions. This run has included big wins over Tottenham, Manchester United, Newcastle and Nottingham Forest.
![[Bournemouth players celebrating a goal.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/dango-ouattara-bournemouth-celebrates-team-966599100.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
However, when looking at the underlying numbers, Bournemouth unbelievably appear to have room to get even better. Their game model and style have highlighted a tale of smart recruitment paired with savvy tactics reminiscent of Leeds at their best under Marcelo Bielsa.
![[Andoni Iraola, Bournemouth head coach, applauding.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/head-coach-andoni-iraola-bournemouth-966597405.jpg?strip=all&w=740)
This weekend sees the south coast outfit take on their toughest test of the lot in Liverpool, so how can might they look to foil Arne Slot's table toppers. Bournemouth football this season has caught many by surprise with how aggressive and front-footed it is.
![[Liverpool FC trainer Arne Slot coaching during a match.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/liverpool-fc-trainer-arne-slot-967782754.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
While many clubs lower down the league might be content to accept their limitations and play within themselves against the top sides, Bournemouth have no such fears. Instead they are exceptionally disciplined and hardworking out of possession while being brave in their approach and the way they look to prevent the opposition from playing out from the back.
![[Illustration of average team positions for Bournemouth vs Newcastle.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/the-sun-22-23-average-position-e54af404-8e0a-48ef-a71c-f753e4977d0e.png?strip=all&w=960)
The key for Iraola and Bournemouth is players are willing to step right-up as the opposition look to find ways to progress the ball from their defensive third. JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUS. Iraola almost exclusively has lined his side up in a 4-2-3-1 system this season.
![[Illustration of average team positions for Bournemouth v Nottingham Forest.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/the-sun-22-23-average-position-fa465023-5c7b-486e-b19b-a0dbdf96a245.png?strip=all&w=960)
