Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola has confirmed that Justin Kluivert is expected to return for Saturday’s Premier League clash against Crystal Palace after missing the club’s last three matches through injury.
The Dutch attacker has enjoyed a standout campaign on the south coast, registering 12 goals and six assists in 28 league appearances. But he’s been sidelined since picking up a muscle overload in the FA Cup defeat to Manchester City on March 30.
Kluivert sat out the defeats to Ipswich and Fulham and a draw with West Ham, but his return is now imminent—news that will delight both Bournemouth fans and Fantasy Premier League managers alike.
“If everything goes normal, he will be available,” Iraola confirmed in Friday’s pre-match press conference.
“That’s the plan. He’s close and has been progressing well.”
Earlier this month, Iraola explained that Kluivert had been suffering from an overload and tightness—a warning sign of potential muscular injury.
“When you feel tightness, you are on the verge of a risk,” he said at the time.
Now, with Kluivert back in the mix, Bournemouth are well-positioned to continue their push for a historic European finish. The Cherries currently sit eighth in the Premier League with six games remaining—and just one point needed to set a new club record for points in a top-flight season.
Bournemouth’s Remaining Fixtures:
- Crystal Palace (A)
- Manchester United (H)
- Arsenal (A)
- Aston Villa (H)
- Manchester City (A)
- Leicester City (H)
This final stretch will be pivotal in determining whether Iraola’s side can secure an unprecedented spot in European competition. Since arriving from Roma in 2023, Kluivert has established himself as one of Bournemouth’s most influential players, and his return could prove vital as the season enters its final phase.
Alongside Kluivert, Bournemouth’s young talents such as Dean Huijsen, Milos Kerkez, and Illya Zabarnyi have also caught the attention of Europe’s elite. Real Madrid are reportedly monitoring Huijsen, while Liverpool and Arsenal are tracking Kerkez.
With form, fitness, and focus aligning at just the right time, Iraola’s Bournemouth could be on the verge of something truly historic.