Fulham’s head of academy recruitment, Malcolm Elias, who previously performed a similar role at Liverpool, has died after an impressive career that saw him unlock the likes of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Gareth Bale
Fulham have confirmed that Malcolm Elias, who served as their head of academy recruitment, has died. He spent 16 years at Craven Cottage and had previously nurtured young talent, including Trent Alexander-Arnold, elsewhere.
Elias left Anfield to move to west London in 2009, where he’s been ever since. He’s keen eye for a player saw him spot and aid the development of Harvey Elliott, who made his debut as the Premier League’s youngest ever player and has since moved to Liverpool.
In his previous role at Southampton Elias also nurtured young stars like Gareth Bale and Theo Walcott before they went on to big and better things.
However he has now passed following a short illness with Fulham issuing their condolences to his family. A club statement read: «It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our colleague and dear friend, Malcolm Elias, after a short illness.
«The Club’s Head of Academy Recruitment, Malcolm had a fantastic reputation in football for unearthing and nurturing young talent.
READ MORE: Liverpool make huge new Florian Wirtz offer in bid to strike British record transferREAD MORE: Liverpool completing second summer signing as highly-rated Hungarian star to join Reds
«A proud Welshman, Malcolm was approaching his 16th anniversary at Craven Cottage this summer, having joined us from Liverpool in July 2009, while he also previously enjoyed a highly successful spell at Southampton alongside future Fulham colleagues Huw Jennings and Steve Wigley.
«The influence that Malcolm had on the modern game cannot be understated, having worked with and developed the likes of Theo Walcott, Gareth Bale, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Harvey Elliott, Luke Harris and Jay Stansfield, to name but a few. A hugely popular figure around the training ground, Malcolm will be sorely missed by all who knew him.
«Our thoughts and prayers go out to Paula – Malcolm’s ever devoted and endlessly supportive wife of nearly 50 years – his sons Andrew and Daniel, his six beloved grandchildren, as well as his additional family and friends.»
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
Sky Sports discounted Premier League and EFL package
Sky has slashed the price of its Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle ahead of the 2025/26 season, saving members £192 and offering more than 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more.
Sky will show at least 215 live Premier League games next season, an increase of up to 100 more.
