A look into AFC Bournemouth’s Relentless Physicality and High-Speed Running
AFC Bournemouth have been one of the most exciting teams in the Premier League this season, combining high-intensity pressing with a direct and effective attacking approach. Their performances have been marked by standout individual contributions, defensive solidity, and a tactical style from Andoni Iraola that prioritizes swift ball progression and relentless off-the-ball movement. We delve into the PFF FC metrics and grades to look deeper into the traits that have helped their success.
Relentless Physicality and High-Speed Play
A defining feature of Bournemouth’s season has been their relentless work rate and intensity:
They rank 2nd in total distance covered this season (2,782km), averaging 100.3km per game.
They also rank 2nd in high-speed running (>20 km/h), covering 279.5km (11.2km per game).
They lead the league in sprints (6,174 total, 147 per game) and accelerations (13,489 total, 540 per game).
Bournemouth maintains high intensity in both phases of play:4th in HSR distance while in possession (4.4km per game).
2nd in HSR distance while out of possession (5.3km per game).
1st in sprints and accelerations out of possession, making them one of the most aggressive pressing teams in the league.
Two players have epitomized Bournemouth’s commitment to high-intensity football:
Milos Kerkez ranks 4th in total sprints (684) in the league.
Antoine Semenyo ranks 2nd in accelerations (1,355), consistently applying pressure to opposing defenders.
Milos Kerkez has been a standout physical performer in the Premier League this season and compares to Liverpool’s Andy Robertson. It is no surprise that Liverpool have apparent interest in the Hungarian full back.
Attacking Strategy and Tactical Execution
Bournemouth’s attacking approach heavily relies on their ability to create chances through crossing, and they have been one of the most effective teams in the Premier League in this area. They rank 3rd in total crosses (589) behind Fulham and Liverpool, and 2nd in open play crosses (432), only trailing Fulham. Their ability to deliver quality balls into the box has played a crucial role in their offensive success.
Not only do they send in a high volume of crosses, but they also generate goal-scoring opportunities from them. Bournemouth leads the league in chances created from open play crosses (22) and half-chances created from open play crosses (41). When considering all crosses, they rank 2nd in total chances created (25) behind Arsenal (30) and 3rd when including half-chances (53) behind Arsenal and Liverpool (both with 55).
Bournemouth’s attacking style also revolves around quickly advancing the ball into dangerous areas:
They have a high percentage of through balls and over-the-top passes (7.5%) of their total passes, ranking 3rd behind Liverpool and Newcastle.
They rank 4th in creating contested passes and 5th in total opportunities created, reflecting their intent to move the ball forward rapidly.
Young Defensive Talent
Bournemouth’s defensive solidity has played a vital role in their success, and this is mostly down to their young centre-back pairing of Dean Huijsen (19) and Illia Zabarnyi (22).
Using PFF FC player grades, Huijsen ranks 5th among CB’s in Tackling (82.4) and Clearances (82.6) while excelling in Challenge Grade (83.3, 7th) and 50/50 duels (83.5, 8th).
Zabarnyi has proven to be an elite one-on-one defender, ranking 5th among CB’s in Defending Dribbles (83.0), 6th in 50/50 duels (84.8), and 10th in Challenge Grade (81.9).
AFC Bournemouth’s intensity at the fullback position has meant they have been difficult to break down through crosses, allowing the least amount of chances from crosses (12) in the league.
The rise of Antoine Semenyo
Antoine Semenyo’s aggressive approach in one-on-one situations makes him one of the most dangerous wingers in the league. He ranks 10th among wingers and attacking midfielders in dribbling with an 83.8 Dribbling Grade, and his ability to beat defenders has been instrumental in Bournemouth’s attacking play. Bournemouth have attempted the 5th most dribbles (335, behind Brighton, Spurs, West Ham and City) and the 4th most dangerous positions created off dribbles which is led by Semenyo’s direct approach.
Semenyo’s versatility has also been crucial for Bournemouth, especially amid injuries in key positions. He is one of the most two-footed players in the league, with 62% of total events coming from his right foot and 38% from his left. This allows him to play effectively across all three forward positions, making him a valuable asset in adapting to the team’s tactical needs.
Can Bournemouth sustain the intensity?
Bournemouth’s physically demanding style of play does come with risks, particularly in terms of injuries. Their relentless pressing and high-speed running can increase the likelihood of muscle strains and fatigue-related injuries. This season, they have already struggled with the absence of a fully fit right-back or central striker for extended periods, which has tested their squad depth. Managing player workload and maintaining squad fitness will be essential to ensuring they can sustain their high-energy approach across the full campaign.
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