Tyler Adams, USA midfielder, gives a thumbs-up during an international match. © Twitter (@FabrizioRomano)
Bournemouth midfielder Tyler Adams is set for an extended spell on the sidelines following back surgery, marking another setback in a challenging period for the USA international. Adams, who joined the Cherries from Leeds United in a high-profile transfer exceeding £20 million last summer, endured an injury-riddled debut season that saw him limited to just four Premier League appearances.
Despite his physical struggles, Adams represented his country at the Copa America, featuring in all three group-stage matches and a pre-tournament friendly against Brazil. His participation came despite Bournemouth’s medical team advising caution to the USA staff regarding his condition. Adams’ commitment to the national team saw him play the full 90 minutes in the final group game against Uruguay, culminating in an earlier-than-expected exit for the USA.
Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola explained the midfielder’s situation, explaining that Adams had been managing back pain since the end of the domestic season. “He finished the season with an injury in his back,” Iraola stated. He wanted to play Copa America because it was very important for him, but he had restrictions and was still in pain. Two days after they were knocked out, he had surgery.”
The decision to proceed with surgery was deemed necessary, but it left Adams with an indefinite recovery period. “He is out for some time,” Iraola continued. “It is difficult to say how long, but he won’t be fit for the start of the season. But September? or October? I don’t know.”
When questioned why Bournemouth did not prevent Adams from joining his national team, Iraola clarified, “It was not our choice. It is a decision for the nations that are allowed to select players, and he wanted to play, thinking the injury would get better, but he felt it was getting worse.”
Adams has already embarked on his rehabilitation journey with Bournemouth on their pre-season tour in California. The Cherries’ itinerary includes matches against Wrexham in Santa Barbara (00:00 BST on Sunday morning) and Arsenal in Carson (03:30 BST on Thursday).
In brighter news for Bournemouth, star striker Dominic Solanke remains with the club amid ongoing transfer speculation. The former Liverpool forward, who netted an impressive 21 goals in the all competitions last season, including 19 in the Premier League, is reportedly under a £65 million release clause that can only be triggered by certain clubs.
Solanke’s prolific form saw him finish fourth in the Premier League Golden Boot standings, and Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola is keen to retain his services. “Dom is happy,” Iraola noted. “He has returned in perfect shape, is training very well, and his relationship with his teammates is excellent.”
However, Iraola also adopted a philosophical stance on the matter, acknowledging the unpredictable nature of the transfer market. “The market is open. You cannot say he is going to stay or that he is going to leave because we don’t know. In the end, it is something you cannot control.”
Solanke’s presence in the squad for the upcoming fixtures against Wrexham and Arsenal is a positive sign for Bournemouth fans, who hope the club can maintain its critical assets as they prepare for the new season.
