Wire flash
SportsLiverpool CEO of Football Michael Edwards leaves a year early as FSG's multi-club expansion stalls
Editorial responsibility
- No named human review is recorded for this page.
- Source reporting is collected, normalized, translated or condensed automatically when needed.
- Automatically published source-backed update
Michael Edwards, Fenway Sports Group's chief of football and CEO of football at Liverpool, is leaving a year before his contract expires, having already served his notice period. His departure marks a potential domino effect in a boardroom exodus, with sporting director Richard Hughes reportedly heading to Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal this summer. The exits follow Liverpool's fifth-place Premier League finish last season and the departure of manager Arne Slot. Edwards' second stint at Liverpool, which began in 2024, included overseeing FSG's wider football operations. However, FSG's plans to create a multi-club football dynasty were mothballed, drawing criticism that the club was falling behind Premier League rivals. FSG president Mike Gordon thanked Edwards for his contribution, while Edwards called it a privilege to return to the club.
Source report
Liverpool's ownership is facing a significant boardroom shake-up, with Fenway Sports Group's (FSG) chief of football set 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.
His exit could trigger a series of departures for Liverpool and FSG, with sporting director Richard Hughes reportedly set to join Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal this summer. The developments follow Liverpool's fifth-place finish in the Premier League last season and the departure of manager Arne Slot.
Official Statement
A statement from FSG read:
"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."
Fenway Sports Group Changes
Edwards was first hired at Liverpool in 2011 and has held multiple roles at the club. His second stint involved supporting FSG's broader strategy, which has faced significant challenges.
Plans to establish a multi-club football dynasty — similar to those of Sir Jim Ratcliffe, City Football Group, Black Knight, and Brighton owner Tony Bloom — were shelved, drawing criticism that Liverpool was falling behind its Premier League rivals. The initiative was widely regarded as a failure.
FSG's sporting portfolio includes:
- MLB side the Boston Red Sox
- NHL franchise the Pittsburgh Penguins
- TGL golf franchise Boston Common Golf
Edwards' Comments
"It has been a privilege to return to Liverpool Football Club at such an important moment," Edwards said.
FSG President's Tribute
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