Outgoing Bournemouth director of football Richard Hughes is reportedly in line to become Liverpool’s new sporting director as part of a significant restructuring effort by the club’s American owners.
With Jurgen Klopp set to depart in the summer, Liverpool is gearing up for a new era, prioritizing the appointment of a new sporting director following Jorg Schmadtke’s departure. Speculation has arisen regarding whether Klopp’s announcement is a result of these planned changes, indicating a potential shift in the balance of power within the club.
Regardless, the club is pushing forward with its plans, with former Anfield sporting director Michael Edwards being eyed for a crucial role in the rebuild. There is speculation that Edwards is keen on bringing in Richard Hughes, whom Eddie Howe previously targeted for a role at Celtic in 2021, to oversee football operations at Liverpool once Klopp departs.
Michael Edwards, widely credited for Liverpool’s success during Klopp’s tenure, departed in 2022 and has reportedly declined offers to return since then. However, a recent report from The Athletic suggests that he is now contemplating a broader offer to join the FSG ownership group, which would encompass responsibilities beyond Liverpool and extend to other sporting ventures.
If this move materializes, it’s speculated that Richard Hughes, highly regarded for his work at Bournemouth, will assume Edwards’ former role. Hughes, who was previously targeted by Eddie Howe for a position at Celtic, remained at Bournemouth where he played a pivotal role in their resurgence in the English Premier League. Despite his contributions, Bournemouth has announced that Hughes will be departing in the summer after a decade of service.
