Julian Ward has returned to Liverpool FC as sporting director, succeeding Richard Hughes following his departure for Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal. The 45-year-old has resumed leadership of the football department at Anfield, stepping immediately into high-stakes preparations for the upcoming January transfer window and crucial player contract renewals.
Reversing Direction at Anfield
Ward previously held the sporting director position during the 2022/23 campaign, having stepped up to succeed Michael Edwards before announcing his intention to leave midway through that season. During that prior tenure, he played a central role in orchestrating deals for Darwin Núñez, Cody Gakpo, and Alexis Mac Allister. Since 2024, Ward had transitioned into a broader role as technical director for Fenway Sports Group (FSG), overseeing operations before agreeing to return to the day-to-day demands of Merseyside.
“I’m incredibly excited to take on this role,” Ward said of his reappointment. “It goes without saying that I’m hugely grateful to the owners for the trust they’re placing in me.”
FSG Leadership Drive the Decision
FSG President Mike Gordon, who stepped back into a more hands-on daily operational capacity as CEO Football following Edwards’ earlier exit, personally spearheaded the effort to bring Ward back into the fold. Gordon pointed to Ward’s institutional familiarity as a primary driver behind the appointment.
“We are delighted that Julian has agreed to take on the leadership of our football department at this stage,” Gordon stated. “Given his extensive experience in football, and specifically with Liverpool FC, we view him as the ideal candidate.”
Immediate Priorities: Squad Planning and Renewals
He will work in close tandem with Deputy Sporting Director David Woodfine, Chief Scout Barry Hunter, and FSG Director of Football Development Pedro Marques, while providing strategic support to head coach Andoni Iraola.
Beyond shaping the club’s strategy for the winter transfer market, Ward’s immediate agenda features contractual discussions. Representatives for Virgil van Dijk, Alisson Becker, and Alexis Mac Allister are slated for talks as Liverpool looks to secure its core leadership group.
