Liverpool reappoint Julian Ward as sporting director amid Anfield upheaval
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Liverpool have reappointed Julian Ward as sporting director, swiftly replacing Richard Hughes after his move to Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal. Ward’s return provides continuity during major upheaval at Anfield, with Hughes and former FSG football chief Michael Edwards leaving this year.
Ward, 45, previously held the role in 2022-23 before stepping down for personal reasons and later becoming FSG’s technical director. He has spent 14 years working across Liverpool’s recruitment structure and oversaw global talent planning, while the club is also selling a 38% stake to 1892 Holdings for £2bn, with the consortium holding an option for a full takeover.
- Julian Ward returns as Liverpool sporting director.
- Richard Hughes has left for Al-Hilal.
- His appointment brings continuity amid ownership and leadership changes.
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A sporting director is the executive responsible for signing players and overseeing how a football club builds its squad. Liverpool's role has undergone significant changes this year as senior figures have departed from the club.
Julian Ward spent 14 years working in Liverpool's recruitment department and previously served as sporting director from 2022 to 2023, stepping down for personal reasons. He subsequently took on a different role overseeing talent planning for the company that owned Liverpool.
Liverpool is currently navigating major changes in both its leadership and ownership structure, with a new investor group taking a stake in the club. Ward's appointment provides experienced continuity in the recruitment operation during this period of transition.
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Originally published by The Guardian as “Liverpool rehire Julian Ward as sporting director to replace Richard Hughes”.