Liverpool's new manager Andoni Iraola is poised to be reunited with two of his former Bournemouth assistants, Tommy Elphick and Shaun Cooper, after the pair terminated their contracts with the Cherries to facilitate moves to Anfield.
According to Sky Sports, the two coaches have agreed to end their deals in Dorset and are expected to sign their contracts with Liverpool this weekend. Bournemouth had hoped Elphick and Cooper would remain as part of new head coach Marco Rose's staff, but both have chosen to follow Iraola to Merseyside.
Elphick rejects Bristol City approach
Elphick, a lifelong Liverpool fan, also turned down an offer to become head coach at Bristol City this summer, underscoring his determination to reunite with Iraola. The pair were key members of Iraola's coaching team during his successful three-year stint at Bournemouth, which culminated in the club qualifying for European competition for the first time in their history.
Iraola confirmed his departure from Bournemouth midway through the season, ending his tenure on the south coast. The Cherries had impressed year on year under his guidance, and in his final campaign, he led them to a historic European spot.
Iraola replaces Arne Slot at Liverpool
Iraola's move to Liverpool came after Arne Slot was dismissed following a poor second season, which saw the Reds drop from champions to fifth in the Premier League despite spending over £400 million on new players. Liverpool acted swiftly to appoint Iraola, who now has the opportunity to prove himself at one of the world's elite clubs.
At Anfield, Iraola will reunite with Milos Kerkez, a Liverpool signing from 12 months ago. Upon his appointment, Iraola expressed his excitement: "Really excited, really excited because obviously you know about Liverpool, you know that it's a big club, a massive club, one of the biggest in the world. But feeling inside and understanding a little bit more of this club, I always thought it's a special club."
He added: "You don't need a lot of things to get attracted by Liverpool. Liverpool is Liverpool. But obviously the atmosphere, the supporters, the club, the players, the chance for me to coach top-level players, the chance to fight for titles. I think it cannot be more attractive than this. It's difficult to find it. So, really excited to start."
Coaching team takes shape
The additions of Elphick and Cooper are expected to be the first of several appointments to Iraola's backroom staff. The new Liverpool boss is known for building strong relationships with his coaching team, and the pair's arrival will provide continuity as he implements his philosophy at the club.
With the new season approaching, Liverpool fans will be eager to see how Iraola's influence transforms the team, as the club aims to reclaim its place among the Premier League's elite.
