Image Credits: Imago Images
Andoni Iraola is set to welcome his squad back to Kirkby on 13 July, with Liverpool’s pre-season beginning shortly after the conclusion of international commitments for a number of first‑team players.
With Virgil van Dijk, Cody Gakpo, Ryan Gravenberch, and Florian Wirtz all knocked out at the round of 32 stage of the World Cup, they are expected to report back relatively early.
It gives the new boss valuable time to work with key leaders in defence and midfield.
The emphasis at Anfield is on establishing Iraola’s front‑foot, aggressive style as quickly as possible, making the coaching staff every bit as important as any summer signing.
According to Mike McGrath of the Telegraph, Liverpool have now reached an agreement to sign Bournemouth coaches Tommy Elphick and Shaun Cooper onto Andoni Iraola’s backroom staff, as the new head coach steps up preparations for the 2026/27 campaign.
Both are tipped to join as assistant coaches.
Tommy Elphick, who previously played for Brighton, Bournemouth and Aston Villa, served as one of Andoni Iraola’s assistants on the south coast.
The 38-year-old is said to have turned down managerial offers from Bristol City and Burnley in order to continue working alongside the Spaniard.
Elphick moved into coaching with Bournemouth’s development squad in late 2021, shortly after hanging up his boots, and was elevated to the first-team staff during the 2022/23 campaign under Gary O’Neil.
Shaun Cooper, another ex‑Bournemouth defender, also stepped up to the senior coaching group in 2022/23 following Scott Parker’s exit.
The duo then remained in place under Iraola, helping Bournemouth to a sixth-place finish in the Premier League last season.
Pablo de la Torre, meanwhile, followed Iraola from Rayo Vallecano to Bournemouth in 2023 as his fitness coach, and is likewise expected to join as a first-team fitness coach.
Liverpool have agreed deals for Tommy Elphick and Shaun Cooper to join Andoni Iraola’s backroom staff ahead of 2026/27 pre-season. Two highly-rated coaches worked with #LFC head coach at Bournemouth 🔴🍒⚽️ @TeleFootball #AFCB
— Mike McGrath (@mcgrathmike) July 1, 2026