Liverpool’s coaching overhaul is taking shape. Tommy Elphick and Shaun Cooper are leaving Bournemouth to join the Reds as assistant coaches under incoming head coach Andoni Iraola, marking the latest chapter in a managerial transition that has been quietly reshuffling the Premier League’s power dynamics.

The moves confirm what had been widely expected since Iraola reached a verbal agreement to take the Liverpool job on a two-year contract in early June 2026.

The full Bournemouth exodus

Elphick and Cooper aren’t the only ones making the trip north. Analyst Tom Webber and conditioning coach Pablo de la Torre are also expected to follow Iraola to Anfield, effectively transplanting a significant chunk of Bournemouth’s backroom infrastructure to Merseyside.

Joe Partington described the departures of Elphick and Cooper as a “big hit” for Bournemouth, citing their pivotal roles in the club’s recent success.

Bournemouth, for their part, have already begun rebuilding its coaching setup under incoming manager Marco Rose, with new staff hires reported as recently as June 17, 2026.

Why Iraola’s backroom choices matter

Elphick brings an interesting profile. A former professional defender who spent time at clubs including Aston Villa and Bournemouth during his playing career, he transitioned into coaching and became a key figure in Iraola’s setup at the Vitality Stadium. His understanding of English football gives Iraola something that a purely continental coaching staff might lack.

Cooper offers a similar blend of English football experience and tactical alignment with Iraola’s philosophy. Together, they represent continuity for a coaching approach that produced impressive results on the south coast.

For Liverpool, this is significant because the club is navigating a post-Arne Slot landscape. Bringing your own people is the clearest possible statement of intent.