Bournemouth Boss Iraola Names Chelsea Among England’s Elite Ahead of Clash
Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has offered high praise to Chelsea, describing the Blues as one of the top three or four teams in England right now.
The Spanish tactician placed Enzo Maresca’s side in the same bracket as Manchester City, Arsenal, and Liverpool, acknowledging that the London club has elevated its performance this season.
Speaking ahead of Bournemouth’s home game at the Vitality Stadium this weekend, Iraola said:
“They have a top coach, in and out of possession. It is going to be difficult for us against very good players that are well coached. If we are going to beat them we have to be at our best.”
The Cherries’ boss, however, hinted at a silver lining — Chelsea will be without defensive midfielder Moises Caicedo, who is suspended for the match.
As it stands, Chelsea sit 3rd with 24 points, while Bournemouth are 14th on 19 points, looking to close the gap in what promises to be a fierce contest.
Opinion: Compliment or Mind Game?
Iraola’s glowing comments might be genuine respect — or clever psychological strategy.
Labeling Chelsea as elite puts pressure back on Maresca’s men, subtly shifting expectations away from Bournemouth. And why not? When a side is playing with confidence and sitting comfortably in the top three, they become a target everyone wants to humble.
Chelsea’s transformation under Maresca has surprised many: fast-paced, structured football and revitalized players — they look like a team rediscovering their identity. But this matchup is exactly the kind that tests “title-worthy” teams. Winning against City is one thing — winning away to determined mid-table fighters is another.
For Bournemouth, the belief is quietly brewing. One win changes the picture dramatically. And with Caicedo out, Iraola will sense an opportunity to disrupt Chelsea’s rhythm in midfield and cause an upset that loudens Bournemouth’s ambitions.
Whichever way it swings, this weekend’s clash feels like more than just 3 points — it’s a statement game.
