Bournemouth 2025/26 Season Preview
Bournemouth enjoyed their strongest Premier League campaign yet, finishing ninth and earning their record-high points total under manager Andoni Iraola. The club came close to reaching Europe for the first time, a sign of real progress on the pitch.
Squad Changes Pose a Real Testbuild
This summer has seen the departures of key defenders, including Dean Huijsen, who moved to Real Madrid, Milos Kerkez to Liverpool, and Kepa Arrizabalaga returning to his parent club. There are concerns that further exits — like Illia Zabarnyi being linked with PSG — could destabilize a defence that was already impressive.
Though these moves reflect Bournemouth’s “buy-low, sell-high” approach, they now face the challenge of replacing that quality.
New Signings and Off-Field Investments
In response to defensive departures, Bournemouth spent around £25 million on goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic from Chelsea, aiming to bring much-needed stability between the posts. On the left side of defence, they signed Adrien Truffert from Rennes — an understated but promising move.
Off the field, billionaire owner Bill Foley invested £35 million in a modern training complex and agreed to buy Bournemouth’s home stadium, paving the way for future expansion.
Young Players Poised to Take a Step Up
Up front, 20-year-old striker Daniel Adu-Adjei caught attention in pre-season and could emerge as a surprise asset this term. Meanwhile, midfield playmaker Alex Scott, who had his season cut short by injury, is expected to contribute more this year after shining at the U21 Euros for England.
Challenges and Opportunities Loom Big
While the club’s financial model continues to deliver smart business, the loss of so much defensive talent brings real risks. Manager Iraola, whose contract enters its final year, has done exceptional work already and now needs to guide a leaner squad through tougher tests.
If the new signings and youth step up quickly, Bournemouth can maintain their upward momentum. But if adaptation falters, the season could prove much harder.
Prediction
With so much turnover in the backline and a slim squad outside of those losses, a top-half finish may be too optimistic. A realistic goal is a mid-table finish, around 12th place — a stable outcome that reflects both the potential and the challenges ahead.
