Europe was not on Iraola's agenda
- Published
Andoni Iraola replaced Gary O'Neil in June 2023 having taken Rayo Vallecano to 11th in La Liga after leading them to promotion in his first season.
Just three wins in his opening 14 games - including chastening defeats by Arsenal and Manchester City - cast initial doubt on that call as the Cherries took time to adapt to his high-intensity methods.
They won just three points from his opening nine league games before a victory against Burnley earned a first win at the 10th attempt.
"We couldn't take in all the information at first," former striker Dominic Solanke said at the time.
"For me, I'm pressing with a number 10 behind me and, at first, our timing was off. We didn't know when to press or to drop, but now it's second nature as the manager has gone through it many times and it's embedded in our heads, and we are all on the same wavelength. It's natural now."
In the season prior to taking charge at Bournemouth, Iraola's Vallecano forced more high turnovers which led to a shot (68) than any side in the top five European leagues than Bayern Munich (73).
And imposing a similar style at Bournemouth was more his aim on arriving than looking to secure matches against continental opposition.
"I had no idea [about reaching Europe when joining]," said Iraola.
"The first thing from the club was more than the results, changing the style, changing the approach, being more offensive and proactive – that's why they signed me.
"The club was focused on this and this is why I was attracted to the idea. The way of playing took some time but it has given us some incredible results. We have beaten the points record every single season.
"I knew it was almost impossible to get Europe but the owner told me since the beginning 'I want Europe.' To finish the three seasons giving back, not just to the owner but the fans and players, it is one way of thanking them."
