Courtesy: Google
AFC Bournemouth is set to host Manchester City in the FA Cup quarter-finals at the Vitality Stadium on Sunday, March 30, 2025. Bournemouth, under manager Andoni Iraola, has achieved notable success this season, including their first participation in European competitions and a strong position in the Premier League. The Spanish manager recently had a conversation with Guillem Balague where he spoke about the importance of this FA Cup run. He said, "The FA Cup for me, is much more important than playing in Europe."
Iraola's ambition extends to European competitions as well but the Bournemouth gaffer has highlighted that today’s match is of top priority for him and his team. Reflecting on the significance of the match, Iraola stated, "We have a big opportunity this weekend. We know the challenge, we know who we face, but the reward is very big." Winning this match would give Iraola an opportunity to etch his name in the history books as he will become the first manager to lead the Cherries into the FA Cup semi-final.
Preview of FA Cup quarter-final between Bournemouth and Man City
Talking about their FA Cup campaign so far, they secured their quarter-final spot by defeating Wolves on penalties. Notably, Bournemouth earned a 2-1 victory over Manchester City in the Premier League earlier this season. Manchester City, led by Pep Guardiola, views the FA Cup as a crucial opportunity for silverware this season, especially after exits from the Champions League and a significant gap in the Premier League title race. They aim to reach the semi-finals for the seventh consecutive year.
Talking about the availability of players for both the teams, defenders Marcos Senesi and Julian Araujo are nearing returns but are unlikely to feature for Bournemouth. Luis Sinisterra remains sidelined with a hamstring injury. Adam Smith is a doubt, potentially leading to Lewis Cook filling in at right-back. As far as City is concerned, goalkeeper Ederson is doubtful due to abdominal pain, with Stefan Ortega poised to start if necessary. Defenders John Stones, Manuel Akanji, and Nathan Aké are unavailable due to injuries.
