Michael Edwards quits Liverpool role in major FSG blow

Liverpool have been rocked by the departure of Michael Edwards, with the influential executive leaving his role as CEO of Football Operations for Fenway Sports Group.

Edwards still had one year remaining on his contract, but FSG were unable to convince him to stay after being informed of his intention to leave last autumn.

FSG president Mike Gordon will now take greater day-to-day control of Liverpool at a time when sporting director Richard Hughes is also facing speculation over his future.

Edwards returned to FSG in 2024 with a wider role overseeing the organisation’s football operations.

His second spell included helping Liverpool navigate a major period of transition, although he was no longer directly responsible for transfers or contract negotiations.

In a statement, Edwards said it had been a “privilege” to return to FSG and Liverpool.

“I leave believing Liverpool is in a strong position, with outstanding people, a clear direction and the foundations in place for continued success,” he said.

Edwards also admitted FSG’s wider football project had developed differently from what was originally planned.

“While that broader project ultimately evolved differently to how we had originally envisaged, I am proud of the work our team undertook.”

Gordon praised Edwards’ contribution across his two spells with Liverpool and FSG.

“Michael has made an extraordinary contribution to Liverpool Football Club and Fenway Sports Group,” he said.

Gordon also credited Edwards with helping the club through a significant transition after his return in 2024.

“While we are naturally disappointed to see him leave, we will always be grateful for everything he has given.”

Edwards originally joined Liverpool in 2011 and became sporting director in 2016. He played a major role in building the squad that won the Champions League in 2019 and Liverpool’s first Premier League title a year later.

The club’s recruitment during that period included key signings such as Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mané.

Edwards’ exit comes with Hughes’ future also the subject of growing speculation.

The Liverpool sporting director is under contract until next summer and played a major role in appointing Andoni Iraola as head coach last month following Arne Slot’s departure.

However, Hughes has been linked with Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal, where his former Bournemouth colleague Simon Francis is now technical director.

Hughes has overseen Liverpool’s transfer business and contract negotiations during Edwards’ latest spell with FSG.

Losing both senior figures in a short period would create significant uncertainty around the club’s football leadership structure.

Gordon will take greater control of Liverpool’s daily operations as FSG considers how to replace Edwards.

Attention will also remain on Hughes, whose contract expires next summer. With Liverpool preparing for a new season under Iraola, clarity over the sporting director’s future will be important for the club’s long-term planning.

How big a blow is Michael Edwards’ departure for Liverpool?