Michael Edwards has resigned from his role as CEO of Football at Fenway Sports Group (FSG), the owner of Liverpool, after less than two years in the position. The 45-year-old, who previously served as Liverpool's sporting director, returned to the club in March 2024 to oversee football operations across FSG's portfolio, which includes Liverpool, the Boston Red Sox, and the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Edwards' departure and FSG's restructuring
Edwards' resignation was confirmed by FSG on Thursday, with the group stating that he had decided to step down to pursue new opportunities. His departure comes as part of a wider restructuring of FSG's football operations, with Richard Hughes, Liverpool's current sporting director, expected to take on a broader role. According to FSG, Hughes will now report directly to the club's owners, John W. Henry and Tom Werner, rather than to Edwards.
Edwards' legacy at Liverpool
Edwards is widely credited with transforming Liverpool's recruitment strategy during his first stint at the club, which began in 2011 when he joined as head of analytics. He was promoted to sporting director in 2016 and played a key role in the signings of Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mané, Alisson Becker, and Virgil van Dijk, which helped Liverpool win the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, and League Cup under Jürgen Klopp. Edwards left Liverpool in 2022 but returned in March 2024 to take up the newly created role of CEO of Football at FSG.
Impact on Liverpool's future
Edwards' departure raises questions about FSG's long-term strategy for Liverpool, particularly as the club prepares for a post-Klopp era. The German manager announced in January that he would leave at the end of the 2023-24 season, with Arne Slot appointed as his successor. Edwards was expected to oversee the transition and help shape the club's future direction. However, his resignation means that Hughes will now take on a more prominent role in football decisions.
FSG said in a statement: "We are grateful for Michael's contributions and wish him well in his future endeavors. Richard Hughes will continue to lead our football operations, working closely with John and Tom." The group added that it remains committed to Liverpool's success and will continue to invest in the club.
Reactions from the football world
News of Edwards' resignation has sparked speculation about his next move, with some reports linking him to a potential role at Manchester United or Chelsea. However, no official announcements have been made. Liverpool fans have expressed mixed reactions on social media, with some praising Edwards' work and others questioning the timing of his departure.
According to a source close to the club, Edwards' decision was driven by a desire for a new challenge and a wish to spend more time with his family. The source said: "Michael has always been driven by projects that excite him. He feels he has achieved what he set out to do at FSG and is ready for the next chapter."
