Liverpool Reappoint Julian Ward as Sporting Director
Julian Ward returns to Liverpool as sporting director, taking over from Richard Hughes and tasked with key contract decisions.
Liverpool have named Julian Ward as their new sporting director, marking his second stint in the role. The 45-year-old replaces Richard Hughes, who departed in September after just over two years. Ward previously served as sporting director during the 2022-23 season under then-manager Jurgen Klopp.
Ward's long association with Liverpool began in 2012 when he joined as European scouting manager for Spain and Portugal. He became assistant sporting director in 2020 and succeeded Michael Edwards in 2022, though it was confirmed in November 2022 that he would leave at the end of that campaign. He returned in 2024 as Fenway Sports Group's technical director, overseeing player development pathways and the academy for the past two years.
FSG president Mike Gordon expressed delight at Ward's appointment, citing his extensive experience in the football industry and with Liverpool specifically. Gordon added that Ward's knowledge will enhance football operations and ensure head coach Andoni Iraola receives the necessary support. Ward himself said he was "incredibly excited" to take on the role.
Ward's previous tenure saw him oversee the signings of Luis Diaz, Cody Gakpo, Alexis Mac Allister and Darwin Nunez. He was also influential in Mohamed Salah's 2022 contract renewal and used his relationship with agent Jorge Mendes in the pursuit of Diogo Jota. Immediate tasks include securing Rio Ngumoha on a long-term deal now that he is 18 and deciding on new contracts for Alisson and Virgil van Dijk, whose current agreements expire this summer.
The appointment is seen as bringing stability after a summer of transition. Liverpool spoke to external candidates but viewed Ward as the standout choice, with one source describing him as calm, well-spoken and possessing a clear vision. Under Klopp, Ward left 12 months into a three-year deal, but he is expected to have more influence now given the revised structure of the head coach role under Arne Slot and Iraola.
Supporters have largely welcomed the move, though some expressed caution on social media about whether Ward's second spell will yield different results. The club's hierarchy will hope his deep knowledge of Liverpool and global contacts network can help maintain momentum during a period of change.
Image: Getty Images / BBC Sport
