Liverpool has secured its next sporting director by rehiring Julian Ward, a figure who previously orchestrated the club's high-profile recruitment drive during the 2022-23 season. The appointment comes swiftly after Richard Hughes departed for Saudi Arabian outfit Al-Hilal earlier this month, leaving a void in the club's football operations hierarchy. Ward's reappointment marks a strategic decision to lean on proven experience and institutional knowledge during a period of transition at Anfield.
During his previous tenure, Ward demonstrated his recruitment acumen by overseeing the arrivals of several marquee signings, including striker Darwin Núñez, midfielder Alexis Mac Allister, and winger Cody Gakpo. These acquisitions underscore his track record in identifying and securing talent at elite level. Fenway Sports Group president Mike Gordon expressed confidence in the decision, highlighting how Ward's expertise will strengthen the club's football operations and provide crucial assistance to manager Andoni Iraola as the Spanish boss navigates the club's recent challenges.
Ward expressed his enthusiasm about returning to the role, declaring: "I am incredibly excited to take on this role and it goes without saying that I am hugely grateful for the trust that has been placed in me by ownership." Drawing on more than a decade of service within Liverpool's football operation, Ward acknowledged both the significant responsibility and opportunity that lies ahead. He emphasized the club's commitment to maintaining its established culture while embracing necessary change, stating the organization will "continue to create an environment that maximises performance while promoting the continued development of our players and our people."
Ward's responsibilities encompass leading recruitment initiatives, negotiating and finalizing player signings, managing departures, and handling contract renewals—a portfolio that carries particular significance given that key defenders Virgil van Dijk and Alisson enter the final year of their existing agreements. With Iraola's support system strengthened through this appointment, Liverpool aims to navigate the ongoing reshaping of its squad while maintaining the competitive standards expected of the institution.