# Liverpool rehire Julian Ward as sporting director

> Liverpool brings back Julian Ward after two years as technical director to fill sporting director role amid leadership changes.
- Title: Liverpool rehire Julian Ward as sporting director | Shortify
- Summary: Liverpool brings back Julian Ward after two years as technical director to fill sporting director role amid leadership changes. Ward returns to Liverpool…
- Keywords: julian ward, liverpool, fsg, richard hughes, anfield, sporting director, fenway sports group, cody gakpo, jürgen klopp, sports, rehire, Julian
- Source: the Guardian — https://theguardian.com/football/2026/sep/26/liverpool-rehire-julian-ward-sporting-director-replace-richard-hughes
- Published: 2026-09-26T22:08:31+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: julian ward, liverpool, fsg, richard hughes, anfield, sporting director, fenway sports group, cody gakpo, jürgen klopp, sports
## Ward returns after two years
Julian Ward, Liverpool’s former sporting director for 2022-23, rejoined the club after two years as technical director for FSG.
## Replacing Richard Hughes
Ward takes over the sporting director role after Richard Hughes left for Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro League.
## 14 years at Liverpool
Ward has worked for Liverpool in various roles including European scouting manager and assistant sporting director over 14 years.
## Leadership upheaval
Liverpool faces leadership changes as Michael Edwards leaves and FSG sells a 38% stake to 1892 Holdings for £2bn.
## Continuity focus
Ward’s experience with squad planning helps Liverpool amid recent transfers and leadership transitions.
## Key takeaway

Ward returns to Liverpool after two years with FSG to replace Richard Hughes, offering continuity during leadership upheaval.