Liverpool are poised to bring back Julian Ward as sporting director, marking his second spell in the role after Richard Hughes' departure to Al Hilal. The club’s owners have identified the 45‑year‑old Englishman as their top candidate.
Liverpool are close to confirming Julian Ward as the club’s new sporting director, a move that would see him return to Anfield for a second tenure. Sources close to the club told ESPN that the appointment is expected to be finalised within days, following the exit of Richard Hughes earlier this month.
Ward, a 45‑year‑old Englishman, previously served as Liverpool’s sporting director before stepping down in 2024. According to The Athletic, the club’s owners have made him the leading candidate to replace Hughes, who left to join Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal at the start of September (source 3, source 6).
The re‑appointment is being framed as a strategic continuity move, with Ward credited for overseeing several key signings during his first spell. While detailed lists of his past acquisitions have not been released, reports indicate that the players he signed are expected to return to the squad under his renewed guidance (source 5).
Club officials have emphasized that Ward’s deep familiarity with Liverpool’s recruitment philosophy and youth development pathways makes him uniquely suited to steer the sporting department forward. The timing aligns with the club’s broader summer overhaul, as it seeks to strengthen the squad ahead of the upcoming Premier League campaign.
Should the appointment be confirmed, Ward will succeed Richard Hughes, who departed after a brief stint at Al Hilal. The move underscores Liverpool’s intent to maintain a stable leadership structure while pursuing ambitious on‑field objectives for the 2026‑27 season.