Liverpool Sporting Director Hughes Steps Down After Transfer Window

Richard Hughes has left his role as Liverpool’s sporting director after two years, ending a tenure shaped by the club’s transition from Jürgen Klopp to Arne Slot.

Liverpool said Hughes told the club’s ownership that he wanted to pursue a new challenge. He joined from Bournemouth and oversaw football operations and recruitment during a period of major change. Fenway Sports Group president Mike Gordon credited him with helping deliver the 2024-25 league title and Champions League qualification the following season.

Hughes appointed Slot as Klopp’s successor, a decision that quickly paid off when the Dutchman won the Premier League in his first campaign. Hughes also led an ambitious recruitment drive that brought high-profile players including Florian Wirtz, Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike as Liverpool invested heavily to compete at the highest level.

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Richard joined us at the start of a period of change, embracing that responsibility by leading our football operations department and overseeing recruitment while also providing valuable support to our coaching staff.

The spending, however, did not end questions about the squad. Critics said it lacked balance and depth in certain positions. Liverpool then endured a more difficult 2025-26 season, and questions grew over some of Hughes’ expensive recruitment decisions. Slot was sacked after the club’s title defence turned into a struggle to qualify for the Champions League.

Hughes has been linked with a move to Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal. He thanked Liverpool for the opportunity to work at Anfield, calling it a source of “great pride” to serve what he described as an “incredible and unique institution.”

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I would like to reiterate what I said upon my arrival, it has been a source of great pride to have been given the opportunity to serve this incredible and unique institution. That is something I will always be grateful for.