Having qualified for Europe for the first time, Iraola praised Bournemouth for their outstanding performance.

Bournemouth, nicknamed "The Cherries," secured a 1-1 draw against Manchester City in the 37th round of the 2025/26 Premier League season, thanks to a first-half goal from Krupi. While failing to take all three points, Bournemouth successfully qualified for European competition, marking their first appearance in a European tournament.

In the 39th minute, Trüfer passed the ball back from the left wing, and Kruppi followed up with a curling shot that found the back of the net, giving Bournemouth a 1-0 lead.

In the second half stoppage time, Manchester City's attack caused a scramble. Rodri received the ball and shot, but the ball hit the post. Haaland then followed up and scored, helping Manchester City equalize the score at 1-1.

Ultimately, Bournemouth drew 1-1 with Manchester City at home. After maintaining a 17-game unbeaten run, Bournemouth currently sits in 6th place in the standings with 56 points, having already secured European qualification and even having a chance to compete for Champions League status.

Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola said, "Perhaps the only thing we wanted to change was the result, because I think we should have won 2-0 or 3-0. But that wouldn't change our situation regarding European qualification; we've already secured Europa League qualification and even retain a slim chance of qualifying for the Champions League."

"I think the team played very well. It was a game where both sides had big goals to achieve, so it was inevitable that there would be some tension, but I really enjoyed the game."

Andoni Iraola continued, "I saw the fans jumping and cheering, the atmosphere was incredible. Qualifying for Europe is already an incredible achievement, but I think these moments that we will remember forever are even more important."

It's worth mentioning that after failing to secure 3 points in this match, Manchester City moved up to 2nd place in the standings with 78 points, 4 points behind Arsenal in first place. As a result, Arteta's team successfully secured the championship early.

Andoni Iraola said, "I want to congratulate Arteta and Arsenal, as well as Kepa, who played alongside us last season. I'm really happy for them. I think they've performed very well over the past few seasons, but they've always just missed out on the title. Now they've finally received what they deserve."

“We’ve been focused on securing European qualification for Bournemouth throughout this match, but now I think we should also congratulate Arteta and his team.”

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