Overview
- Liverpool confirmed on Saturday that Richard Hughes has stepped down after two years in the role and issued a farewell statement from the sporting director.
- Multiple outlets report Hughes is expected to take a role at Saudi Pro League club Al‑Hilal following the close of the summer transfer window, and Liverpool say he did not carry out Al‑Hilal work while still at the club.
- Hughes’ tenure included heavy spending of roughly £670m on transfers, the appointment of Arne Slot who delivered the 2024–25 Premier League title, and the later replacement of Slot with Andoni Iraola.
- Fenway Sports Group president Mike Gordon is leading the succession process and Liverpool say senior figures — including Julian Ward, Pedro Marques, David Woodfine and chief scout Barry Hunter — will cover duties in the short term.
- His departure follows Michael Edwards’ exit and a recent minority stake sale, deepening boardroom change and leaving questions over recruitment continuity and how Hughes’ large‑fee signings will be judged over the coming seasons.