Southampton officially announce new coaching staff

The Saints have today announced the final two members of Mauricio Pellegrino’s coaching staff, with both working under the Argentine at Alaves.

After several weeks of speculation, Southampton have today finally announced who Pellegrino’s assistant will be at the club, with Carlos Compagnucci getting the nod.

The Argentine was favourite for the role having worked under Southampton’s current at Alaves, before Pellegrino left the Spanish outfit back in Spring.

The 48-year-old was also number two to Pellegrino at Independiente in Argentina, before following him to Europe last summer.

Southampton have however also announced that 35-year-old Xavier Tamarit will also become parting of the Saints’ coaching set-up, taking up the role of Assistant First Team Coach.

The Spaniard also worked under Pellegrino at Alaves as well as gaining experience at Valencia, and will hoping to expand his coaching experience with the move to England.

Meanwhile Eric Black – who was appointed alongside Claude Puel last summer – will remain at the club whilst taking on the role of Senior First Team Coach. Despite controversies during his maiden season on the south coast, it’s believed that Black was kept on due to his popularity with the players and staff.

The Scot was linked with a bribing scandal late last year but claims have since simmered down, meaning the former Aston Villa assistant will remain a vital part of Southampton’s coaching team for the foreseeable future.

However there was one casualty as a direct result of the appointments, with Pascal Plancque leaving his role with the club.

The Frenchman was part of Puel’s set-up last season but following the latter’s departure he has also left the club. A statement on Southampton’s website reads as follows:

"“Everyone at the club would like to thank Pascal for his efforts, and we wish him the very best for the future.”"