Liverpool appoint Julian Ward as sporting director for a second spell after Richard Hughes leaves the role. Multiple outlets report that Hughes departs in early July, and Liverpool move quickly to fill the vacancy with Ward, who previously held the post.
The reports describe Ward, 45, as returning to Anfield after having spent the past two years as a technical director for Fenway Sports Group, the club’s owners. The Guardian adds that Hughes leaves to join Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal, framing the appointment as part of changes in Liverpool’s hierarchy. Yahoo and the BBC also characterize the move as continuity in leadership during an ongoing transitional period.
Across outlets, the emphasis differs slightly: some focus on the timing and club response to Hughes’s departure, while others note Ward’s prior tenure in 2022-23 and his recent role within the owners’ wider structure. Overall, all accounts agree the appointment is effective immediately and that Liverpool positions the hire as a continuation of a working relationship that has benefited the club.
