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Andoni Iraola believes Liverpool's additional rest gives them an "advantage" over Bournemouth ahead of Sunday's clash at the Vitality Stadium.
The Spanish manager returns to his former club seeking only his second Premier League win since taking the reins at Anfield, though fatigue could prove to be a decisive factor in the match's outcome.
Liverpool were in Carabao Cup third round action on Tuesday, with a rotated squad securing a 3–1 win over Tottenham Hotspur. Iraola made 10 changes following last weekend's goalless stalemate against Fulham, though he did call upon several key first-team players from the bench.
Bournemouth, however, played even more recently, making the long trip to Real Sociedad for their historic first-ever European fixture in the Europa League on Thursday—a match they won 2–1 courtesy of goals from Justin Kluivert and Rayan.
"I think we have an advantage," Iraola said at his pre-match press conference. "Most of the time it has been the other way around. We have been the team that played last, but this time we played two days before they did.
"I think that should give us an edge, but I also know where we're heading, and I know what awaits us there—not just the stadium but everything about the place.
"When you look at how few games they've lost in a long time [just three defeats in 2026], you understand just how tough it is to beat Bournemouth."
While Liverpool were able to rely on youngsters and fringe players against Spurs, Marco Rose fielded a full-strength Bournemouth XI in San Sebastián. On paper, the Reds should arrive as the more rested side for Iraola's homecoming.
How Have Liverpool Fared After Midweek Matches?
Iraola has spoken confidently about his side's advantage this weekend, but Liverpool's sluggish display in last Saturday's draw with Fulham will be a source of concern.
Having expended so much energy in their victory over Atlético Madrid just days earlier, the Reds looked visibly drained at Anfield, struggling to execute Iraola's high-pressing style in a dull stalemate.
In the 11 matches Liverpool have played following midweek commitments this calendar year, they have won just six times. Three draws and two defeats—one of which came at Bournemouth back in January—make for somewhat concerning reading.
Fortunately for the Reds, competing in midweek European football is a completely new experience for Bournemouth, and their squad lacks the same depth and quality as Iraola's.
Liverpool are in desperate need of a win in their final fixture before the upcoming international break, having collected just six points from a possible 12 in the league under Iraola. A victory over Ipswich Town has been sandwiched between three frustrating draws.