Michael Edwards has stepped down as CEO of Liverpool owner Fenway Sports Group, sparking uncertainty behind the scenes at Anfield.
Edwards returned to the FSG system two years ago when he was given a new role, having previously held a number of roles at Liverpool, most notably as sporting director, which he leaves in 2022. He was lured back in on the simple condition that he would oversee the operations of multiple clubs, a venture that the American owner ultimately failed to pursue despite entering into negotiations with several other European clubs.
According to the Liverpool Echo, it is understood that FSG chairman Mike Gordon will resume the role he has held for many years and will once again take on greater day-to-day responsibility for Liverpool.
FSG first learned of Edwards’ intention to leave last fall and were unable to convince the player to remain with the club.
Edwards’ departure, who left with one year left on his three-year contract, comes amid mounting speculation about the departure of Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes.
Hughes’ contract runs until next summer and he played a key role in the appointment of Andoni Iraola as head coach, replacing Arne Slott, who was sacked last month.
However, rumors persist that the sporting director, who has strong ties to Al Hilal in the Saudi Professional League, could resign after the summer transfer window.
They recently appointed former Bournemouth colleague Simon Francis as technical director. Edwards joined Liverpool in 2011 and became sporting director in 2016.
Throughout his tenure, the Reds established themselves as a formidable force in the transfer market, helping them win a number of trophies under Jurgen Klopp.
However, Edwards has not been involved in Liverpool’s transfer negotiations since taking over at FSG, with Hughes overseeing market activity alongside contract negotiations.
