Julian Ward named Liverpool sporting director as Richard Hughes departs for Al-Hilal

Liverpool have appointed Julian Ward as their new sporting director, ending a brief vacancy created when Richard Hughes left the club at the start of the month to take up a role at Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal.

Ward, who previously served as technical director for Fenway Sports Group, has deep roots at Anfield. He first arrived on Merseyside in 2012, working across player development, recruitment, and scouting before stepping into a broader FSG remit.

FSG president Mike Gordon underlined the continuity the appointment is intended to provide. “The knowledge and expertise Julian 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,” Gordon said. “Julian’s appointment also represents the continuation of a long-standing relationship which has always served Liverpool well.”

Ward himself acknowledged both the weight of the position and the opportunity it presents. “Having been part of Liverpool’s football operation for more than a decade, I have a full appreciation and first-hand knowledge of the challenge that comes with the position, as well as a clear understanding of the demands and ambitions of this great club,” he said.

“This is an exciting period for Liverpool — on and off the pitch — in which change and opportunity go hand in hand, but at the same time the culture, values and principles that have underpinned the club for so long remain as strong as ever.”

Ward also pointed to the infrastructure around head coach Iraola — including staff at the AXA Training Centre, the Academy, and AXA Melwood — as a platform to build from. “Building on these strong foundations and the work overseen by our football operations in recent seasons is both a huge responsibility and a privilege,” he added.

The appointment completes a swift succession process for Liverpool, who moved quickly to fill the sporting director vacancy and maintain stability in their football operations structure.