Michael Edwards Departs as FSG’s Chief Executive of Football
Michael Edwards has departed from his role as chief executive of football for Fenway Sports Group (FSG), the owners of Liverpool Football Club. Edwards had informed FSG in autumn 2025 of his intention to step down once he felt plans for Liverpool’s future were in place. His exit was confirmed, with FSG having expressed a desire for him to remain.
Edwards returned to FSG in March 2024 with a broad remit, including overseeing the transition from the Jürgen Klopp era at Liverpool. A key part of this role involved expanding FSG’s football operations, specifically through multi-club ownership and strategic partnerships. This broader project, however, evolved differently from original plans, leading to his decision to leave.
FSG’s plans to add a second club to its football portfolio were a significant factor in Edwards’ return. He had been instrumental in an extensive search, with approximately 25 clubs across Europe, particularly in Spain, Portugal, and France, being analysed. Despite looking at clubs such as Getafe and Bordeaux, FSG did not find a suitable acquisition and subsequently shelved these plans.
The shelving of the multi-club model effectively put Edwards’ position in doubt, as the role was created with this expansion in mind. He departs with one year remaining on the contract he signed when he was appointed in 2024. FSG may not directly replace him, given the specific nature of the role created for him.
Edwards first joined Liverpool in November 2011 as head of performance analysis. He progressed through various roles, including director of technical performance and technical director, before becoming sporting director in 2016. During his initial tenure, which lasted until 2022, he developed a reputation as a skilled negotiator.
His partnership with Klopp was credited with helping Liverpool build a team that achieved significant success, including being crowned champions of Europe in 2019 and ending the club’s 30-year wait for a league title with the Premier League victory the following season. After stepping down in 2022, Edwards reportedly declined numerous job offers from European clubs before returning to FSG.
Upon his return in 2024, Edwards was responsible for establishing a new football leadership structure. This included appointing Richard Hughes as sporting director and bringing back Julian Ward as FSG technical director. He also oversaw the appointment of Arne Slot, and later Andoni Iraola as head coach after Slot’s departure.
Edwards commented on his departure, stating, “It has been a privilege to return to Fenway Sports Group and Liverpool Football Club at such an important moment. I leave believing Liverpool is in a strong position, with outstanding people, a clear direction and the foundations in place for continued success.” He also acknowledged the evolution of FSG’s wider football ambitions, which differed from initial expectations.
Mike Gordon, FSG’s president, is expected to take on a more direct role in football operations following Edwards’ exit. Gordon praised Edwards’ contributions, noting his exceptional judgment and commitment to building a strong football organisation. He also highlighted Edwards’ role in Liverpool successfully navigating a period of transition.
Impact on Liverpool’s structure
Edwards’ departure is not anticipated to disrupt Liverpool’s summer transfer activities, as these operations are managed by sporting director Richard Hughes. Plans for the current transfer window are reportedly well-established. However, the exit does contribute to ongoing discussions regarding the club’s hierarchy.
There are reports linking Hughes with a move to Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro League after the summer transfer window closes. Hughes, who was involved in the decision to appoint Iraola, could depart once the transfer window concludes. This potential move would further alter the leadership structure at Liverpool.
The situation surrounding Edwards’ departure was known to FSG since autumn 2025, suggesting a planned transition rather than an unexpected upheaval. FSG had initially hoped Edwards would stay, but ultimately respected his decision to leave. The expectation was that his departure would likely occur in the summer of 2026.
The lack of progress on the multi-club ownership model was a significant factor in Edwards’ decision. He believed that embarking on such a project was crucial for Liverpool to compete effectively with rivals. With no second club acquired, the rationale for his specific role diminished.
Edwards’ legacy and future outlook
Edwards’ legacy at Liverpool includes his involvement in key appointments, such as Klopp and later Iraola, working in conjunction with Hughes. He also played a role in bringing Ward back to the club as technical director. During his time, Liverpool achieved significant on-field success, including two Premier League titles, the Champions League, European Super Cup, Club World Cup, FA Cup, and two League Cups.
Despite the changes in leadership, FSG is understood to have succession plans in place. While there are rumours regarding Hughes’ future, the immediate focus remains on the current transfer window, with Hughes overseeing transfer dealings for the remainder of the summer.
The club’s ownership group is unlikely to seek a direct replacement for Edwards, with FSG president Mike Gordon expected to resume oversight of football operations. Edwards’ return in 2024 was specifically to navigate a period of transition, which included the implementation of a new football leadership structure and the appointment of a new head coach.
Edwards’ departure marks the culmination of a planned transition following the completion of key strategic priorities.
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Source: theguardian.com
As News GB's Senior Football Correspondent, Lewis Hartnell reports on the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side for readers across the country. He reported on south-coast football for a regional title. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from Solent University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Lewis lives in Southampton, where he watches youth football and follows the transfer market. “The week's training ground decides the weekend's headlines.”
