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SportsLiverpool chief of football Michael Edwards leaves as multi-club expansion plan stalls
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Fenway Sports Group's chief of football, Michael Edwards, is leaving Liverpool a year before his contract expires, having already served his notice period. His departure marks a potential domino in a series of exits, with sporting director Richard Hughes reportedly heading to Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal this summer, following the earlier exit of manager Arne Slot. Edwards, who rejoined Liverpool in 2024, was tasked with overseeing FSG's wider football operations and a multi-club expansion strategy. However, that plan was mothballed, drawing criticism that Liverpool was falling behind Premier League rivals. FSG president Mike Gordon thanked Edwards for his service. The club finished fifth in the Premier League last season.
Source report
Liverpool's ownership structure is facing significant upheaval as Fenway Sports Group's (FSG) chief of football prepares to leave the club.
Michael Edwards, who returned to Liverpool for a second stint in 2024, will depart a year before his contract expires, having already served his notice period.
Domino Effect of Departures
Edwards' exit could trigger a series of further departures for Liverpool and FSG:
- Sporting director Richard Hughes is reportedly set to join Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal this summer
- The club also saw the departure of manager Arne Slot at the end of last season
- Liverpool finished fifth in the Premier League last season
Official Statement
A statement from Fenway Sports Group confirmed:
"Fenway Sports Group (FSG) today announced that Michael Edwards will leave his role as CEO of football prior to the start of Liverpool FC's pre-season preparations, bringing to a close his second tenure with the organisation during which he oversaw Liverpool's operation while also supporting the continued development of FSG's wider football operations."
Edwards' Tenure and FSG's Wider Strategy
Edwards was first hired at Liverpool in 2011 and held several roles at the club. His second stint involved supporting FSG's broader football strategy — a period that proved challenging.
Plans to create a multi-club football dynasty — similar to those of Sir Jim Ratcliffe, City Football Group, Black Knight, and Brighton owner Tony Bloom — were shelved. This led to criticism that Liverpool was falling behind its Premier League rivals, with the initiative widely viewed as a failure.
FSG's Sporting Portfolio
Fenway Sports Group's current sporting holdings include:
- MLB: Boston Red Sox
- NHL: Pittsburgh Penguins
- TGL Golf: Boston Common Golf
Reactions
Edwards commented: "It has been a privilege to return to Liverpool Football Club at such an important moment."
FSG president Mike Gordon added:
"Michael has made an extraordinary contribution to Liverpool Football Club and Fenway Sports Group throughout his time with our organisation. 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."
Source
City AMWestern
Part of this Story
Michael Edwards resigns as FSG CEO, leaving Liverpool in transition