# Liverpool appoint Julian Ward as sporting director

> Liverpool name Julian Ward as new sporting director after his return from 2024
- Title: Liverpool appoint Julian Ward as sporting director · BBC Sport
- Summary: Liverpool name Julian Ward as new sporting director after his return from 2024 Ward brings stability and experience to Liverpool's football operations after…
- Keywords: julian ward, liverpool, sporting director, richard hughes, fsg, anfield, michael edwards, andoni iraola, jurgen klopp, luis diaz, cody gakpo, alexis mac allister
- Source: BBC Sport — https://bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/c3x2zkvkez48o
- Published: 2026-09-26T09:08:17.155+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: julian ward, liverpool, sporting director, richard hughes, fsg, anfield, michael edwards, andoni iraola, jurgen klopp, luis diaz, cody gakpo, alexis mac allister
## 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.
## Key takeaway

Ward brings stability and experience to Liverpool's football operations after previous stint under Klopp