Michael Edwards is set to rejoin Liverpool in a pivotal role as head of football operations, signaling a significant transition into the post-Jurgen Klopp era. Edwards, formerly the sporting director, played a pivotal role in securing key signings like Alisson, Virgil van Dijk, Sadio Mane, and Mohamed Salah during his previous tenure at the club.
After an 11-year stint at Liverpool, Edwards departed in 2022 to work as a consultant for Ludonautics, a sports management business. However, he will now take on the position of CEO of football at Liverpool, reporting directly to the ownership group at Fenway Sports Group, led by John Henry, Tom Werner, and Mike Gordon.
Expressing gratitude for the opportunity, Edwards emphasized his commitment to taking on new challenges and opportunities. He highlighted the importance of investment and expansion in the football portfolio to ensure competitiveness in the evolving landscape.
One of Edwards’ initial tasks will be to appoint a new sporting director at Liverpool, a position left vacant since Jorg Schmadtke’s departure in January. Richard Hughes, set to leave Bournemouth at the end of the season, is reportedly the frontrunner for the role.
Additionally, finding a successor for Klopp remains a priority, with former Liverpool midfielder and Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso emerging as a prominent candidate.
Despite turning down an offer to return as sporting director in January, face-to-face discussions facilitated a renewed agreement between Edwards and Fenway Sports Group.
Having joined Liverpool in 2011 and later assuming the role of sporting director in 2016, Edwards played a crucial role in shaping the club’s success through strategic signings and acquisitions, cementing his legacy as a key figure in Liverpool’s football operations.
