Ghanaian forward Antoine Semenyo has heaped praise on AFC Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola, stating that the Spanish coach has all the attributes to become one of Europe’s top managers.
Speaking in an interview with SuperSport, Semenyo lauded Iraola’s tactical intelligence, man-management skills, and ability to build strong relationships with his players—factors he believes are key to Bournemouth’s impressive run this season.
“He has the potential to be a top manager. Great guy, player management-wise, he’s so good,” Semenyo said.
“He gets on with the players so well. That’s important. You want to have a connection with the manager off the pitch as well as on it, and I think that’s why we’re where we are in the table.”
Currently sitting 10th in the Premier League, Bournemouth are just eight points adrift of the final European qualification spot, a position that would mark a historic milestone for the club. If achieved, Iraola would become the first manager to guide the Cherries into European competition.
Semenyo, who has been a key figure in Bournemouth’s campaign, has flourished under Iraola’s guidance. The 24-year-old has registered nine goals and five assists across all competitions this season, making it his most productive year since joining from Bristol City.
“He’s given me that freedom in attack. He’s seen in training that when I’m relaxed, I glide past players, shoot from range, and create chances. That trust gives me the confidence to express myself,” Semenyo added.
The Ghanaian forward also emphasized the balance between his offensive contributions and defensive responsibilities.
“I’m also doing the defensive work—recovery runs, tracking back. That’s why I get the attacking freedom. Because I help out defensively, I get space going forward. He’s given me that license to be free on the ball.”
With seven league goals this season, Semenyo ranks as Bournemouth’s third top scorer behind Justin Kluivert (12) and Evanilson (9), underlining his importance to the squad.
As the Premier League season enters its final stretch, Bournemouth and Semenyo are keen on maintaining their strong form in hopes of a European breakthrough.
With Iraola’s leadership and Semenyo’s standout performances, the future looks promising for the Cherries.
