Liverpool Appoints Julian Ward as Sporting Director

Liverpool Football Club announced on Saturday the appointment of Julian Ward as the club’s sporting director, succeeding Richard Hughes, who departed to take up the same role at Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal.

Ward previously served as Liverpool’s sporting director during the 2022-23 season and most recently held the position of technical director at Fenway Sports Group, the club’s owner.

In a club statement, Mike Gordon, chairman of Fenway Sports Group, said: “The knowledge and experience Julian brings will strengthen our football operations and ensure that Andoni Iraola receives the support he needs as he continues to make a very positive impression as head coach.”

For his part, Ward said: “This is an exciting time for Liverpool, both on and off the pitch, with change and opportunity going hand in hand, yet the culture, values, and principles that have underpinned the club for so long remain as strong as ever.”

Ward first joined Liverpool in 2012, working in scouting, talent identification, recruitment, and player development strategy.

Hughes’ departure marks the latest in a series of exits of senior executives from the club in recent months, following the earlier departure of Michael Edwards, who had served as chief executive of football at Fenway Sports Group, Liverpool’s owner.