Liverpool are set to announce the return of Michael Edwards to the club along with Richard Hughes as their new sporting director.
Sky Sports have reported that Liverpool are set to announce twin deals for key roles behind the scenes, with the much-anticipated return of Michael Edwards set to be confirmed next week. Richard Hughes is also expected to join the Merseysiders as their new sporting director.
Michael Edwards returns to Liverpool
Michael Edwards can be considered the man who brought about a structure to Liverpool during his time at the club as their sporting director. Since his departure, things in the background have been shaky, with his successor, Julian Ward, also keeping the role for a short time. Last summer, they brought in Jorg Schmadtke, who oversaw the sporting director’s role temporarily, who has left the club since.
Liverpool are considering restructuring how things are run in the background, which has become imperative since Jurgen Klopp announced his decision to leave. While there are constant links with new managerial names on a daily basis, the Reds are keen to build a structure first and then look for the German’s replacement.
They wanted Edwards as their sporting director in the club, but the former executive rejected that approach. He wants to avoid working in that capacity in football again and remains keen for a different, more prominent role. The 44-year-old has reportedly turned down approaches from Chelsea and Manchester United, citing the same reason, while Real Madrid might have also suffered defeat in this race.
Now, Liverpool are close to bringing Edwards back, albeit in a different role, as he will head football operations and ensure the club have a solid structure for sustainable success. FSG chief John W. Henry and president Mike Gordon presented him with a wider-ranging idea in Boston, which proved to be a compelling pitch for Edwards to consider.
Richard Hughes to join Michael Edwards?
Liverpool are anticipated to make the announcement of Edwards’s return around next week, and his first order of business would be the appointment of a new sporting director. The club have been closing in on Richard Hughes, who, as per the report, has left Bournemouth, despite suggestions he will stay there until the season concludes.
Edwards and Richards will then work closely to determine who should take over from Klopp in the dugout. The managerial search is expected to be a long one but concise. Xabi Alonso remains their favourite candidate, per multiple sources, although alternatives like Ruben Amorim are also considered.
