Elias, mentor of legendary talents Bale and Alexander-Arnold, passes away. An icon in sport development, his legacy lives on.

Academy supremo Elias - who nurtured Bale and Alexander-Arnold - passes away Image source: Fulham FC Image caption: Malcolm Elias joined Fulham in 2009 By Mantej Mann BBC Sport Journalist Published: 7 June 2025 Malcolm Elias, the guru behind the development of Gareth Bale and Trent Alexander-Arnold, has sadly passed away following a brief illness. Elias, head of academy recruitment at Fulham, made the move to the Premier League club from Liverpool in 2009, having previously worked at Southampton. Fulham released a statement saying: "With heavy hearts, we announce the untimely passing of our colleague and beloved friend, Malcolm Elias, after a short illness." Described as a legend in football circles for his talent in identifying and nurturing young prospects, Malcolm had a profound impact on the sport. He played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of talents like Theo Walcott, Gareth Bale, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Harvey Elliott, Luke Harris, and Jay Stansfield, among others. Born in 1953 in Wales, Elias was instrumental in the development of compatriot Bale during their time together at the Southampton academy. Bale went on to achieve great success, earning 111 caps for Wales and enjoying a decorated club career with Southampton, Tottenham, and Real Madrid, where he lifted five Champions League trophies. On the other hand, England's Alexander-Arnold clinched eight major titles with his childhood club Liverpool before recently joining Real Madrid. "Deeply saddened by the loss of Malcolm Elias, a pivotal figure in the club's youth development legacy," expressed Southampton. southampton, liverpool, fulham, premier league, football