Premier League 2025-26 Preview: Bournemouth

Last season, Bournemouth achieved the best result in the club's history in the Premier League, finishing 9th with 56 points. Although the team's momentum faded towards the end of the season, the club now faces serious challenges as several key players have departed due to their successful "buy-low, sell-high" model. The task is clear: to once again compete for European spots with a weakened, yet reinforced, squad.

AFC Bournemouth at a glance

• League Level: First Tier

• Time in league: 4 years

• Squad Market Value: €420.45m

• Squad Size: 30 players

• Average Age: 25.3 years

• Foreigners: 24 players (80.0%)

• National Team Players: 15 players

• Stadium: Vitality Stadium (11,307 seats)

• Current Transfer Balance: +€109.56m

Prospects

The team is on the brink of change after an impressive season. Three key defensive players have departed: Dean Huijsen to Real Madrid, Milos Kerkez to Liverpool, and goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga to Arsenal. While this series of transfers demonstrates the success of the club's "buy-low, sell-high" business model, starting over is a serious challenge. The club reacted immediately to the departures, signing reliable goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic from Chelsea, who can provide a stable foundation for the rebuilt defense. Furthermore, they signed Adrien Truffert from Rennes for the left-back position. Fans should also monitor the situation of Illia Zabarnyi, as Paris Saint-Germain is trying to sign him.

The first match of the season will be an immediate and tough test for Bournemouth, as they must hold their own away at Anfield against Liverpool. The match kicks off at 9:00 PM on Friday, August 15th.

The Manager

Andoni Iraola's appointment two years ago proved to be a masterstroke. The energetic manager guided the team to a club-record 56 points last season, finishing 9th. Iraola's contract has only one year remaining, and while he prefers rolling contracts, a renewal has yet to be decided. Iraola, who excels at self-deprecation, knows that the rebuilding task is daunting, but the squad's quality and new signings offer hope.

Club Finances

The club's 80-year-old billionaire owner, Bill Foley, has taken serious steps to secure the club's long-term future. He has purchased the Vitality Stadium, allowing for a capacity expansion to 20,000, and has also opened a new €35 million, state-of-the-art training complex. Through his Black Knight consortium, Foley has also invested in several other clubs, including Moreirense, Lorient, Hibernian, and Auckland FC. The club is financially stable, as confirmed by its +€109.56m transfer balance.

The Star Signing

Replacing Milos Kerkez at left-back is Adrien Truffert, who arrived from Rennes for a fee of just €11.4 million, considered a true "steal." The 23-year-old, who has one cap for France, was also Rennes' captain, and club experts believe he has immense potential. As a toddler, Truffert even lived in Bournemouth for a year with his family, a happy coincidence.

Who is Stepping Up?

Young striker Daniel Adu-Adjei has a great chance to play a role in the first team after an impressive pre-season. Although he spent the first half of last season on loan in League Two, the 20-year-old scored against Everton during the pre-season. His father, William, is a close friend of Tony Yeboah, which adds a fascinating twist to his story.

A Big Season Ahead for…

Alex Scott has a crucial season ahead. The 22-year-old midfielder, signed for £25 million two years ago, has struggled to find his place in the team due to injuries. However, Scott drew attention with his performance at the U-21 European Championship, and fans are now hoping that he will finally show his talent after recovering from his injuries.