From BBC Sport · · 50s
Liverpool appoint Julian Ward as sporting director
Liverpool name Julian Ward as new sporting director after his return from 2024
In brief
Liverpool name Julian Ward as new sporting director after his return from 2024 Ward brings stability and experience to Liverpool's football operations after previous stint under Klopp Originally reported by BBC Sport.
New sporting director
Liverpool appointed Julian Ward as their new sporting director, replacing Richard Hughes after two years.
“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.”
Ward's return to Liverpool
Ward previously served as sporting director from 2022-23 before leaving in 2024 to become Fenway Sports Group's technical director.
Experience under Klopp
Ward oversaw key signings including Luis Diaz, Cody Gakpo, Alexis Mac Allister and Darwin Nunez during Jurgen Klopp's tenure.
Stability focus
Ward's return provides stability after a summer of transition and has a strong relationship with current head coach Andoni Iraola.
Player development
Ward has been responsible for player development pathways and academy operations since 2024.
The key point
Ward brings stability and experience to Liverpool's football operations after previous stint under Klopp
