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Michael Edwards has left his role as chief executive officer (CEO) of football at Fenway Sports Group (FSG), the owners of Liverpool.
Edwards departs two years into a three-year contract after returning to FSG in March 2024 to help oversee Liverpool’s transition following Jurgen Klopp’s departure.
In a statement, Edwards said: “Liverpool is in a strong position, with outstanding people, a clear direction and the foundations in place for continued success.
“When I returned, I was excited not only by the opportunity to help guide Liverpool through an important period of transition, but also by the chance to help shape FSG’s wider football ambitions.
“While that broader project ultimately evolved differently to how we had originally envisaged, I am proud of the work our team undertook in presenting ownership with a broad range of thoughtful and well-developed options for the future.”
Replacing Mohamed Salah will be one of Liverpool’s biggest challenges ahead of the new season after the club’s long-time talisman left at the end of the previous campaign.
There has also been speculation surrounding sporting director Richard Hughes, with reports suggesting he could follow Edwards out of the club.
Edwards first joined Liverpool in 2011 and became sporting director in 2016 before leaving in 2022. During his time at Anfield, he played a key role in building the squad that ended the club’s 30-year wait for a league title in 2020.
Under his leadership, Liverpool signed several key figures including Salah, Roberto Firmino, Sadio Mane, Andy Robertson and Virgil van Dijk.
FSG president Mike Gordon said the club were “naturally disappointed” to see Edwards leave his position as CEO of Football.
“Michael has made an extraordinary contribution to Liverpool Football Club and Fenway Sports Group throughout his time with our organization,” Gordon said.
“When Michael returned in 2024, he did so at a pivotal moment for Liverpool, embracing a broader leadership role across our football interests in the process.
“Throughout both periods he has consistently demonstrated exceptional judgement, integrity and an unwavering commitment to building a strong football organisation for the long term.
“His return to the organization saw Liverpool successfully navigate a significant period of transition before securing the club’s historic 20th English league title, an achievement to which Michael made an important contribution.
“While we are naturally disappointed to see him leave, we will always be grateful for everything he has given. On behalf of John Henry, Tom Werner and everyone at Fenway Sports Group, I would like to thank Michael for his outstanding service, friendship and leadership, and wish him and his family every success and happiness in the future.”