Liverpool have announced the return of Julian Ward as the club's sporting director. The 45-year-old replaces Richard Hughes following his move to Saudi Arabia with Al-Hilal.
Ward's Liverpool history
Ward previously held the position at Liverpool for the 2022-23 season and most recently worked as technical director for the club's owners, Fenway Sports Group (FSG). He was Liverpool's preferred option and his appointment has now been confirmed.
Ward's journey with Liverpool began in 2012 when he arrived from Manchester City, and was made European scouting manager for Spain and Portugal. He then took on the role of loan pathways and football partnerships manager before being promoted to assistant sporting director in 2020, working alongside Michael Edwards.
Key signings and next steps
When Edwards departed Anfield in 2022, Ward stepped up to replace him. After six months in the position, however, he informed FSG of his intention to leave at the end of that season.
Ward's signings included Luis Diaz, Darwin Nunez and Cody Gakpo. He also stayed beyond his official departure date in order to seal the deal with Brighton for Alexis Mac Allister.
His next post was with FSG, who planned to have Ward oversee football operations at another club as part of their multi-club strategy. But that plan was shelved when FSG decided not to purchase a second side.
