Michael Edwards Departs Fenway Sports Group and Liverpool Ahead of 2026/27 Season

Michael Edwards has stepped down from his position as chief executive officer of football at Fenway Sports Group (FSG), the ownership group behind Liverpool, as the club prepares for the upcoming 2026/27 campaign. FSG confirmed the departure was a “planned transition,” marking the end of Edwards’ two separate tenures at Anfield.

Edwards first joined Liverpool in 2011 as performance director, later ascending to sporting director in 2016. He returned to the organization in March 2024 as CEO, overseeing all football operations during a period of significant change, including the departure of Jürgen Klopp. His earlier stint at the club was instrumental in securing key signings that contributed to Liverpool’s 2019/20 Premier League title—the club’s first league championship since 1990.

Following Klopp’s exit, Edwards briefly worked under interim management before Arne Slot took charge in June 2024, guiding Liverpool to their 20th league title. However, Slot was replaced by Andoni Iraola in early June after a disappointing second season, according to reports. FSG stated Edwards’ departure concludes “a planned transition following the completion of key strategic priorities.”

Edwards reflected on his time at the club: “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 added, “I’d like to thank Mike [Gordon], John [W. Henry], Tom [C. Werner] and everyone across FSG and Liverpool for their support and friendship—and most importantly, the supporters, whose passion makes this club so special.”

Edwards’ exit precedes a critical summer transfer window for Liverpool,其中 one of the most pressing challenges involves replacing Mohamed Salah, the club’s prolific Egyptian forward. Meanwhile, speculation persists regarding the future of sporting director Richard Hughes, potentially further destabilizing Liverpool’s leadership structure.

“Since returning to the organisation in March 2024, he has helped oversee Liverpool through a significant period of change, including the implementation of a new football leadership structure and the appointment of a new head coach,” FSG stated. “He also oversaw the continued evolution of the club’s football operation during a period in which Liverpool secured its historic 20th English league title in 2025, before preparations for the next phase of its development.”

Edwards added: “When I returned, I was excited not only by the opportunity to help guide Liverpool through an important period of transition, but also by the chance to shape FSG’s wider football ambitions. While that broader project ultimately evolved differently than originally envisioned, I am proud of the work our team undertook in presenting ownership with a broad range of thoughtful and well-developed options for the future.”

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