Is Vitality up to European standard? What about the training ground?

Q&A with Jordan Clark banner
  • Published
The outside of Bournemouth's Vitality StadiumImage source, Getty Images

The final part of our Q&A with BBC Radio Solent's Jordan Clark focuses on Bournemouth's academy, the stadium and Andoni Iraola's tactics.

Rob asked: If we were able to get into Europe for next year, is our stadium up to standard?

Jordan answered: As far as I am aware, Vitality Stadium would be able to host European football next season if required. I am sure there are a few boxes that Bournemouth would need to tick to keep Uefa happy, but I do not think there is anything that is unachievable.

The only thing I am not sure about is what impact the stadium redevelopment would have if the work is given the green light by the council.

Depending on how you qualify, European football can start quite early in the summer so that must be something the Cherries are currently having to consider.

David asked: When will Bournemouth's academy achieve elite status and how will that affect the value other clubs place on its output?

Jordan answered: Bournemouth have applied for category one status and are due to be audited this season. If they are successful in their application then they would receive their new categorisation for the 2026-27 season.

With the new training facilities now complete, you have got to think there is every chance they will be successful. There is no doubt it will have a positive impact on the way other clubs view the academy, but ultimately that will be dictated by the quality of player the Cherries produce.

Andoni Iraola in training holding two footballs and about to blow his whistleImage source, Getty Images

And finally, Clive asked: It took nine games for Andoni Iraola to get his tactics working in his first season. Do you think the reason players adapted was a willingness to learn? Do you think it is too big a risk to go to clubs where there is more player power or even resistance?

Jordan answered: That is a great question and not one that I'm even remotely qualified to answer with my Level 1 coaching badge!

What I would say is that when I have spoken to players about Iraola and his tactics, they all talk about how much they love that they are always on the front foot, always attacking and always trying to win games.

I know you want me to say he should stay at Bournemouth forever so he does not have to deal with player power at a big club (and I hope we get to watch his team in action at Vitality Stadium for a long time to come).

However, I cannot imagine even the world's best players would be against buying into a playing style that brings so much excitement week in, week out.

Scroll down this page to read the rest of the Q&A with Jordan.

An image detailing how to follow your Premier League team on BBC Sport: "On the app? Tap the bell icon to get news about your club sent to you. Signed in on a browser? Hit 'Follow' to stay up to date.

Related topics