Liverpool are facing fresh uncertainty behind the scenes after Michael Edwards decided to step down from his role as Fenway Sports Group’s chief executive of football.
His departure comes just two years into a three-year contract and marks another major change at a time when the club is already navigating significant shifts in its football structure.
Why Edwards Decided to Leave
The main factor behind Edwards’ exit appears to be frustration over the lack of progress in FSG’s efforts to acquire a second European club.
When he returned to the organisation in 2024, Edwards was attracted not only by the opportunity to help Liverpool through a period of transition but also by the chance to shape FSG’s broader football ambitions. A key part of that vision involved building a multi-club network.
However, despite exploring opportunities involving clubs such as Getafe, Bordeaux, Toulouse and Malaga, no deal materialised. As the project evolved away from its original vision, Edwards ultimately decided it was time to move on.
Mike Gordon Takes a Bigger Role
With Edwards leaving, FSG president Mike Gordon is expected to assume more direct responsibility for Liverpool’s football operations.
Although the departure creates uncertainty from the outside, those within the club remain confident that the foundations established in recent years are strong enough to maintain stability. Club leaders believe Liverpool’s recruitment structure, culture, football philosophy and internal processes are well-positioned for continued success.
Questions Surround Richard Hughes
Edwards’ departure comes amid ongoing speculation about sporting director Richard Hughes.
Hughes has been linked with a possible move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, and Liverpool have reportedly been unable to provide clear assurances about his future beyond the current transfer window.
The timing is significant, given that Hughes only recently appointed Andoni Iraola as Liverpool’s new head coach following Arne Slot’s departure in May. His contract currently runs until 2027.
Edwards’ Lasting Legacy at Liverpool
This is the second time Edwards has left Liverpool.
His first spell as sporting director helped transform the club into one of the most effective operators in European football. He played a major role in building squads that delivered Premier League and Champions League success, while Liverpool’s recruitment between 2016 and 2020 became widely admired across the sport.
When he left in 2022, several elite clubs, including Manchester United and Chelsea, were reportedly interested in securing his services.
The Multi-Club Vision That Never Materialised
One of Edwards’ biggest objectives after returning was helping FSG expand into the multi-club ownership model that has become increasingly popular across football.
The strategy was partly driven by post-Brexit regulations that limit English clubs’ ability to sign overseas players under the age of 18. Owning a club within the European Union can create development pathways for young players while helping them later qualify for UK work permits.
Despite extensive research and discussions involving around 25 clubs, FSG ultimately failed to complete a purchase.
A More Challenging Second Spell
While Edwards’ first stint was almost universally praised, his return has faced greater scrutiny.
Liverpool invested heavily in players such as Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz, with spending reaching £241 million on those two signings alone. Although Liverpool won the league title during Arne Slot’s first season, some observers believe those expensive additions have yet to fully justify their price tags.
The transition away from the Jürgen Klopp era initially appeared seamless, but the club now finds itself entering another phase of change.
Transfer Plans Continue Despite Exit
Liverpool’s recruitment strategy is not expected to be significantly disrupted by Edwards’ departure.
Most of the preparation for summer business has already been completed, with responsibility for executing transfer plans largely falling to Hughes and his team.
So far, Spanish winger Victor Muñoz is the club’s only summer signing, while Jérémy Jacquet was signed earlier in the year and is set to officially join in July. Further attacking reinforcements are also expected to be a priority.
Key Contract Decisions on the Horizon
Alongside potential new signings, Liverpool must also address a number of important contract situations.
Negotiations with Dominik Szoboszlai are reportedly ongoing, while several senior players are entering the final year of their current agreements, including:
- Virgil van Dijk
- Alisson
- Curtis Jones
- Joe Gomez
These discussions will become increasingly important as the club plans for the future.
Who Could Replace Hughes If He Leaves?
Should Hughes eventually depart, Liverpool already has several internal candidates who could step into a larger role.
David Woodfine, currently assistant sporting director, is highly regarded within the organisation and shares a close working relationship with Edwards. Another option is Julian Ward, who previously served as sporting director before returning to FSG as technical director in 2024.
Both men already have extensive experience within Liverpool’s football structure.
Edwards Leaves Proud of His Work
In his farewell statement, Edwards said he believed Liverpool was in a stronger position than when he arrived and expressed pride in the work completed during his time back at the club.
He acknowledged that the wider football project evolved differently from what had originally been planned but highlighted the extensive work carried out to present ownership with a range of strategic options for the future.
Meanwhile, Mike Gordon praised Edwards’ contribution, describing him as a key figure in Liverpool’s recent success and an important part of the club’s journey to a historic 20th league title.
