Liverpool backroom recruitment gaining steam as Reds plot long-term succession plans

The return of Michael Edwards to the senior role at Liverpool brings Richard Hughes closer to the sporting director role

Liverpool have offered Michael Edwards a senior role which has moved Richard Hughes close to the sporting director role. Liverpool are currently without a sporting director after Jorge Schmadtke departed from the club after the January transfer window.

In January, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp announced that he is stepping back from the managerial role once this season ends. The 56-year-old cited the feeling of burnout and lacking energy to justify his position of power as the reasons.

Klopp’s announcement followed the announcement of several staff members departing the club out of loyalty towards him. The Reds’ owners, Fenway Sports Group have ample amount of time to create a plan and restructure the club.

Klopp is leaving behind a culture of success that balances with the development of young players, providing them opportunities. Liverpool have enjoyed both on-field and commercial success in the past decade under the right structure and management.

Edwards served as the sporting director until 2021 to supervise several decisive signings that helped in the club’s success. The former sporting director’s new role would provide him the power over the club’s football operation and restructure the hierarchy.

Reliable journalist David Ornstein wrote on the Athletic that Bournemouth technical director Hughes would fill the sporting director role. Hughes announced that he is leaving the Cherries at the end of the current season after his successful tenure.

Under the supervision of Hughes, Bournemouth returned to the Premier League and made several astute signings to stay competitive. The 44-year-old is a former Bournemouth player and joined their recruitment team after his retirement in 2014.

He earned an internal promotion to the technical director role in 2016, continuing his work in recruiting key personnel. Under his supervision, the club signed Aaron Ramsdale, Callum Wilson and Dominic Solanke who played a crucial role.

More Liverpool News

• Jurgen Klopp acknowledges rivals’ proficiency as Liverpool take one foot in Europa League last eight
• Liverpool and Chelsea face off in the race for prolific Bundesliga marksman
• Liverpool will battle European giants for Premier League left-back in the transfer window

He also helped the club acquire maximum value from the sales of players like Nathan Ake and Arnaut Danjuma. Should Hughes sign for Liverpool, his first task would be to help Edwards find a suitable successor for Klopp. Bayer Leverkusen and Liverpool favourite Xabi Alonso is currently the firm favourite for the role.