Liverpool FC appoints Richard Hughes as New sporting director.
The 44-year-old, departing from his role as technical director at AFC Bournemouth, where he oversaw the club’s football operations for ten years, will now join the Reds.
Hughes, appointed by Michael Edwards, recently appointed as Fenway Sports Group’s CEO of Football, will commence his duties at the AXA Training Centre on June 1, ahead of the 2024-25 season.
This move reunites Hughes with Edwards, as they had previously collaborated during Hughes’ playing days at Portsmouth.
With over 300 career appearances, primarily as a midfielder for Portsmouth and Bournemouth, Hughes brings substantial experience to his new role.
His appointment marks Edwards’ first major decision in his new role, which involves restructuring the club’s football leadership and overseeing day-to-day on-pitch activities.
Richard Hughes reaction to his appointment.
“I am fully aware of the expectations and responsibilities that come with taking this position. It will be my job, working with Michael [Edwards] and leading the football operations team already in place, plus the wider staff at the AXA Training Centre, to make good decisions.
“That’s really what the job entails: you have to make the kind of good decisions which enhance the prospects of having a team that wins and excites the supporters. It is what Liverpool have done well for a very long time and the benefits are there for everyone to see.”
Hughes’ appointment marks the inaugural major decision by Edwards since he took on the newly established role of FSG CEO of Football. It falls within his responsibilities to restructure the club’s football leadership and oversee day-to-day on-pitch operations.
Reacting to the announcement, Edwards said:
“I’m delighted Richard has agreed to join us in this vitally important position.
“I’ve known him for half of my life in a professional and personal capacity and he is absolutely someone who embodies the best values of Liverpool FC. I trust him completely.
“He has outstanding judgement and a track record of making smart decisions which benefit the organisations he represents.
“Both Richard and I are aware of the weight of responsibility that comes with working in this capacity for a club such as this. The fact he is excited and energised by the challenge ahead is important.
“It is clear to everyone that Jürgen will leave a legacy to build upon and in Richard we have the right person to make the key decisions and offer the leadership to take us forward into a bright future.
“As one very successful chapter will come to a close for Liverpool in the summer, the objective of everyone here is for another one to begin – and with Richard I am confident we have the right person in position for us to achieve this aim.”
