Eighteen points from nine games represents Bournemouth's highest-ever total at this point of a top-flight season in what has been an incredible start under Iraola. His side registered their 100th Premier League victory at the expense of Nottingham Forest and will aim to bypass City this weekend to maintain their spot in the top four.
Team news
Iraola firstly spoke on team news and revealed that his team are in top shape ahead of the clash as he tries to manage so many players returning to full fitness.
"We are in a good spot injury-wise.
"(Evanilson) has been training most of the week normal with the rest of the players.
"Difficult for me to make a decision because I have to leave some players out of the squad. But it is a good and lovely place in that sense.
"We can approach the game in different ways. I will have to think very well what is going to be possible starting XI and options from the bench."
How can Iraola keep his squad happy?
The Spanish head coach was next asked how he can keep his side happy, especially with so many of them fit and challenging for minutes on the pitch.
"To keep everyone happy is impossible. Everyone has to complain and natural it is like this and should be like this.
"Have to accept these things. Have to put team first. What gives us the best chance to get something from the game. Not just starting XI, but also from the bench. I have to take decisions but it might be different decision this week to Villa next week."
Iraola's links to other Premier League sides
Iraola’s contract runs out next summer and he has been at the centre of speculation linking him the likes of Manchester United. He was questioned about his future and confirmed that he is happier than ever with The Cherries.
“We had lunch. We talked about a lot of different things, not just specifically about the contract you will ask me about, or whatever.
“We talk everyday and we have time to talk whenever we decide.
“Bill (Bill Foley the consortium leader) comes here because I think he is enjoying the experience. He is learning more about the game and he is asking even more complete questions.
“He wants to see everything he has really built here, around the stadium and the atmosphere. He is developing and there is still a lot of work to do. We were talking a lot about the plans for the stadium and new phases to make even bigger training facilities.
“There’s a lot of things around the club that are exciting for everyone, and I’m very, very happy to be now in this situation where I can have these good things.
“We did not have a proper meeting in an office, no. We didn’t talk about these things you are asking me (signing a new deal), no.”