Liverpool appoint Julian Ward as new sporting director

Liverpool have appointed Julian Ward as the club's new sporting director. Ward, who previously held the role during the 2022-23 season, replaces Richard Hughes, who left in September after just over two years. Ward returns to Anfield from his role as Fenway Sports Group's technical director.

  • Appointment: Julian Ward named Liverpool sporting director
  • Replaces: Richard Hughes, who left in September after just over two years
  • Ward's age: 45
  • Previous role: FSG technical director (since 2024)
  • First stint: Sporting director during the 2022-23 season

What was said

"I am incredibly excited to take on the role."

— Julian Ward, Liverpool sporting director

"We are delighted that Julian has agreed to take over leadership of our football operations department at this juncture, primarily because it is a role for which we believe he is the ideal candidate given his extensive experience of the football industry in general and Liverpool Football Club in particular. The knowledge and expertise he brings will only enhance our football operations, while also ensuring Andoni Iraola is provided with the support he requires as he continues to make such a positive impression as head coach."

— Mike Gordon, FSG president

Ward's excitement and FSG's confidence in his credentials set a clear tone. Gordon emphasises continuity and support for head coach Andoni Iraola, signalling that Ward's appointment is about stabilising the football operations department.

Analysis: Why Liverpool turned to Ward for stability

Julian Ward's return to the sporting director role brings a sense of continuity to Liverpool after a period of transition. Having been at the club since 2012 in various capacities, Ward knows the club's inner workings and has a strong relationship with FSG president Mike Gordon, who oversees the day-to-day running of the club. His previous stint as sporting director, under Jurgen Klopp, saw him oversee the signings of Luis Diaz, Cody Gakpo, Alexis Mac Allister and Darwin Nunez.

Ward's global contacts network and negotiation experience were also evident in his role in Mohamed Salah's 2022 contract renewal, when he flew to see Salah on holiday to seal the deal. His relationship with agent Jorge Mendes helped Liverpool in their pursuit of Diogo Jota. These examples highlight his ability to close important deals, a trait that will be crucial as he tackles key contract situations.

Under Klopp, Ward left 12 months into a three-year deal, but the structure under both Arne Slot and his successor Andoni Iraola should give him more say now. As FSG's technical director, Ward played a role in Liverpool's push to recruit younger talent. His immediate tasks include securing Rio Ngumoha on a long-term deal now that he is 18, and determining whether new contracts are offered to Alisson and Virgil van Dijk before their current agreements expire this summer.

Talking points

  • Will Ward's previous experience under Klopp translate into success with the current structure under Andoni Iraola?
  • Can Ward secure new deals for Alisson and Virgil van Dijk before their contracts expire this summer?
  • Should Liverpool have looked externally rather than reappointing Ward, who left 12 months into a three-year deal last time?
  • What does Ward's appointment mean for the futures of Rio Ngumoha and other academy talents?

What happens next

Ward's immediate priorities are clear: tie Rio Ngumoha to a long-term contract now that he is 18, and resolve the contract situations of Alisson and Virgil van Dijk before their deals expire this summer. Liverpool's hierarchy will hope Ward's appointment brings the stability needed after a summer of transition, with head coach Andoni Iraola set to benefit from the support.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Liverpool's new sporting director?

Julian Ward has been appointed as Liverpool's new sporting director. He replaces Richard Hughes, who left in September.

When did Julian Ward previously work as Liverpool's sporting director?

Ward first served as sporting director during the 2022-23 season, before leaving at the end of that season.

What are Julian Ward's first tasks at Liverpool?

Securing Rio Ngumoha on a long-term deal now he is 18, and deciding whether to offer new contracts to Alisson and Virgil van Dijk.

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