Significant changes are underway within Liverpool’s leadership structure.

Andoni Iraola took over as head coach in June, signing a two-year contract. However, further alterations are taking place at the executive level throughout this off-season.

Michael Edwards has stepped down as Fenway Sports Group’s CEO of Football. The former Liverpool sporting director had returned to the organization in 2024 as part of the restructuring following Jurgen Klopp’s departure.

Edwards brought in Richard Hughes, a long-time associate, to serve as sporting director. Hughes led the appointment of Arne Slot and managed £450m in transfer spending last summer.

Richard Hughes under scrutiny

Liverpool have performed worse since these leadership changes, and Hughes now faces significant scrutiny.

He selected Bournemouth’s Iraola as the new head coach, yet Hughes will likely spend very little time working alongside the Spaniard.

Reports suggest the Scottish executive will follow Edwards out of the club, despite both men holding contracts valid until 2027.

While Edwards’ departure happened abruptly, a delay remains regarding Hughes’ exit.

Richard Hughes is working his notice period

The club does not expect to offer the former Bournemouth technical director a new deal, nor does it appear he will fulfill his current contract.

Hughes has been linked for some time with a move to the Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, where he would reunite with former colleague Simon Francis.

For now, Hughes continues in his role to manage this summer’s transfer business. Jeremy Jacquet and Victor Munoz have joined the squad, but the club still needs to address several gaps in the roster.

Additionally, Hughes must manage several contract situations before key expiry dates arrive in 2027.

Hughes will leave Liverpool after Sept 1

A report in the Daily Mail claims the club has set a date for the sporting director’s departure. Hughes is expected to move to Saudi Arabia once the transfer window closes on September 1.

“Liverpool will have to commence a search for a new sporting director, too,” the report states.

“Incumbent Hughes, whose contract is due to expire in 2027, is expected to move to Al Hilal in the Saudi Pro League.

“The man who sacked Arne Slot and appointed Iraola as his replacement, a decision taken in tandem with Edwards, will depart once the summer transfer window closes.”

Liverpool still needs to complete business at right-back and on the wings this summer. Reports indicate that Hughes has been executing the plans established by Edwards prior to his departure.