Why Liverpool are turning back to Julian Ward for their sporting director role
Liverpool have said the appointment of Julian Ward as the club's new sporting director represents the continuation of a long-standing relationship which has 'always served the club well'.
Liverpool have confirmed the appointment of Ward as sporting director, with the 45-year-old taking the role for a second time.
Ward, who previously held the position during the 2022.23 season, had been the frontrunner to succeed Richard Hughes after the latter's departure to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal earlier this month.
Ward has spent the past two years working as FSG's technical director, having initially left Liverpool in 2023 for personal reasons.
During his first stint as the Reds' sporting director, he oversaw eight senior signings, including Luis Diaz, Darwin Núñez, Alexis Mac Allister and Cody Gakpo. Among Ward's other signings include Ben Gannon-Goak and Fabio Carvalho, who despite failing to make an impact at Liverpool, were sold on for substantial profit.
Ward first began work with Liverpool in 2012 after joining from Premier League rivals Manchester City. His roles at the club have included overseeing scouting networks in Europe, and working in a number of operational positions. He has previously been tasked with running the club's loan pathways and worked as assistant sporting director to Michael Edwards, before a brief spell in the senior role.
His predecessor, Hughes, had joined Liverpool from Bournemouth in March 2024 and was tasked with leading the rebuild following Jürgen Klopp's departure. He was responsible for the appointment of title-winning manager Arne Slot and successor Andoni Iraola, who he had previously worked with at Bournemouth, before leaving the club for Saudi Arabia.
On Ward's appointment, FSG president Gordon said the Reds were delighted to bring back the sporting director's knowledge and expertise.
Gordon also acknowledged the importance of continuity, at a time of transition for the Reds. 1892 Holdings Consortium, led by Amit Bhatia and including Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, are in the process of buying a 38% stake in the club.
“We are delighted that Julian has agreed to take over leadership of our football operations department at this juncture, primarily because it is a role for which we believe he is the ideal candidate given his extensive experience of the football industry in general and Liverpool Football Club in particular," he told liverpoolfc.com.
“The knowledge and expertise he brings will only enhance our football operations, while also ensuring Andoni [Iraola] is provided with the support he requires as he continues to make such a positive impression as head coach.
“Julian’s appointment also represents the continuation of a long-standing relationship which has always served Liverpool well, and we very much look forward to the next stage in its development.”
