Michael Edwards has turned down the chance to make a return to Liverpool as the club continues their search for a new director of football.
Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Michael Edwards has turned down the director of football role with Liverpool as he snubbed a chance to return. The former executive continues his prolonged break from football operations and will not rejoin the Reds, who will resume searching for more candidates to fill that role.
Michael Edwards turns down Liverpool’s approach
Michael Edwards was instrumental in spearheading Liverpool’s most recent era of success as he provided the background expertise to help Jurgen Klopp’s side on the pitch. The former director was instrumental in carrying out the club’s plans with regard to football operations and player transfers.
He left his role with Liverpool in May of 2022 and, despite links with other clubs, has not decided on returning to football. Liverpool have now failed with a fresh approach to re-hire the 44-year-old, as they wanted him to take up a senior role at the club or within FSG to oversee a crucial transition period.
FSG president Mike Gordon reportedly called Edwards to float the idea of a leadership role. But the 44-year-old has turned down the chance to rejoin Liverpool. The club’s plans suffered a setback following Jurgen Klopp’s decision to step down from his role once the season concludes.
Xabi Alonso remains their priority target to replace the German. But there are other candidates mentioned about should the Spaniard turn down the role. As for a new director of football, the requirement comes after Jorg Schmadtke also confirmed his departure after the latest transfer window. The German arrived after arrived on a short-term deal after Edwards’s successor, Julian Ward, also left the club after a few months in charge.
Who could be Liverpool’s new director of football?
There are a lot of names floated about with regards to filling the director of football role, with Bournemouth’s Richard Hughes emerging as a solid candidate. The Cherries’ executive has done some impressive work behind the scenes that has seen the club rise under current manager Andoni Iraola.
West Ham United’s Tim Steidten is also a target, and there are rumours the German does not have a good relationship with manager David Moyes. The former Bayer Leverkusen man has garnered a stellar reputation for his work in the Bundesliga and last summer with the Hammers.
