Football on the beach with Arteta and a love of reading - Iraola in his own words

From Beach Football to Premier League Ambitions: Andoni Iraola Reflects on Arteta, Reading, and Legacy

Andoni Iraola, the dynamic manager currently steering AFC Bournemouth through the often-turbulent waters of the Premier League, recently sat down with the BBC's Kelly Somers for a refreshingly candid conversation. The interview, a departure from the usual tactical breakdowns and transfer rumour mills, delved into the personal philosophies that shape Iraola’s approach to football and life. From his formative years playing beach football with a young Mikel Arteta to his quiet passion for reading, Iraola offered a glimpse into the man behind the touchline intensity.

The Arteta Connection: A Seed Planted on the Sand?

One of the most intriguing revelations from the interview was Iraola’s early connection with Arsenal’s current manager, Mikel Arteta. The two shared experiences on the beaches of their native Basque Country, a far cry from the manicured pitches of professional football. "We played a lot of beach football," Iraola recalled, a smile evident in his tone. "It was just fun, you know? No tactics, just running and trying to score. But even then, you could see something in him."

This recollection paints a vivid picture of a shared origin story, one rooted in the pure joy of the game. It begs the question: how much of that raw, unadulterated passion for football, learned on the sand, still informs their approach today? For Iraola, it seems, the lessons were profound. He spoke of Arteta's innate understanding of the game, even at a young age. "He was always very competitive, always thinking about how to win. Even back then, he had that edge."

It’s easy to draw parallels between their current managerial styles. Both are known for their high-energy, proactive approaches, demanding a lot from their players both physically and mentally. While Arteta has inherited a club steeped in history and expectation, Iraola has arrived at Bournemouth with a mandate to build something sustainable, to inject a fresh identity into a team that has often flirted with relegation. The echoes of those beach games, perhaps, are still present in their relentless pursuit of victory.

Beyond the Game: The Quiet Influence of Literature

What truly sets Iraola apart, however, is his acknowledged love for reading. In a profession often consumed by the immediate demands of training and match preparation, his dedication to literature is a refreshing anomaly. "I read a lot," he admitted, a statement that might surprise those who only see him as a fiery sideline presence. "It helps me to switch off, but also to learn. I read different things – history, biographies, even fiction sometimes."

This intellectual curiosity is not merely a hobby; it’s a potential wellspring of his managerial acumen. Could the strategic thinking honed by historical accounts or the understanding of human motivation gleaned from biographies be subtly influencing his tactical decisions or his ability to connect with his players? It’s a fascinating thought. A manager who actively seeks to broaden his understanding of the world beyond the 90 minutes is, arguably, a more well-rounded and insightful leader.

Iraola’s preference for diverse reading material suggests a mind that thrives on absorbing information and making connections. This open-mindedness is crucial in modern football, a sport constantly evolving. It hints at a willingness to embrace new ideas and to view challenges from multiple perspectives, qualities that are undoubtedly valuable when navigating the unpredictable landscape of the Premier League.

A Desire for a Lasting Impression: More Than Just Wins

Perhaps the most poignant aspect of Iraola’s interview was his articulation of what he hopes to be remembered for. While winning trophies and achieving league titles are undoubtedly the ultimate goals for any manager, Iraola’s aspirations extend beyond the scoreboard. "Ultimately, I want to be remembered as a good person," he stated, a sentiment that resonates with a quiet sincerity.

This emphasis on character and integrity is commendable. In an era where the pressure to succeed can sometimes lead to questionable behaviour, Iraola’s focus on being a good person is a powerful statement of his values. It suggests a belief that how you achieve success is as important as the success itself. For his players, this likely translates into a manager who not only demands excellence but also fosters a positive and respectful environment.

This desire for a personal legacy, distinct from purely footballing achievements, speaks volumes about his broader perspective. It implies a deep understanding that a career in football is finite, but the impact one has on others can be enduring. For the Bournemouth faithful, this is encouraging news. It suggests a manager who is not just focused on short-term gains but is invested in building a club with a strong ethical foundation, a place where both success and character are valued.

The Bournemouth Project: Building with Purpose

Iraola’s arrival at Bournemouth was met with a mixture of excitement and cautious optimism. The club, having secured Premier League survival, was looking for a manager who could inject a new sense of direction. Iraola, with his reputation for building dynamic, high-pressing teams at Rayo Vallecano, seemed like a perfect fit.

His tenure so far has been characterized by a clear tactical identity and a fearless approach. Bournemouth under Iraola are not a team that sits back and waits; they are a team that actively seeks to impose themselves on their opponents. This has led to some exhilarating performances and, importantly, tangible results. The Cherries are playing with a confidence and attacking flair that has endeared them to their supporters.

The interview with Kelly Somers provided valuable context to this on-field transformation. It’s clear that Iraola’s leadership style is a blend of his formative experiences and his ongoing intellectual development. The intensity on the touchline is balanced by a thoughtful approach to the game and a genuine concern for the well-being of his players.

As the Premier League season progresses, all eyes will be on AFC Bournemouth and their charismatic manager. Andoni Iraola may have started his footballing journey on the sun-drenched beaches of Spain, but his ambition and his carefully cultivated philosophy are now firmly set on making a lasting impact on the grandest stage of them all. His story is a compelling reminder that the most successful individuals are often those who possess a deep understanding of themselves, a thirst for knowledge, and a commitment to leaving the world, and the game, a little better than they found it.