Liverpool are preparing for another major change behind the scenes after Michael Edwards officially stepped down from his role as Chief Executive Officer of Football at Fenway Sports Group (FSG), ending his second spell with the club ahead of the 2026/27 season.
Fenway Sports Group confirmed Edwards’ departure in an official statement, describing it as a “planned transition” following the completion of several key strategic objectives.
His exit closes another influential chapter in Liverpool’s modern history, with Edwards widely regarded as one of the architects behind the club’s transformation into one of Europe’s elite football institutions.
Edwards first joined Liverpool in 2011 as Performance Director before rising through the ranks to become Sporting Director in 2016.
During his initial spell, he played a central role in the club’s recruitment strategy, helping bring in several players who formed the backbone of Liverpool’s Premier League and UEFA Champions League successes under Jurgen Klopp.
After leaving in 2022, Edwards returned in March 2024 as CEO of Football for Fenway Sports Group, overseeing Liverpool’s football operations during one of the club’s most significant periods of transition.
His second tenure coincided with Klopp’s departure and the restructuring of Liverpool’s football department.
According to FSG, Edwards successfully completed the objectives set for his return.
“Edwards’ departure marks the culmination of a planned transition following the completion of key strategic priorities.”
The ownership group added: “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.”
The statement also praised his contribution during another successful era.
“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 leaves at a time when Liverpool face another crucial summer.
Among the club’s biggest priorities is finding a long-term successor to Mohamed Salah, whose departure has created one of the most significant recruitment challenges in recent years.
There is also ongoing speculation surrounding the future of Sporting Director Richard Hughes, with reports suggesting further changes could be made within Liverpool’s executive structure before the new campaign begins.
The leadership reshuffle comes after another eventful period at Anfield.
Arne Slot succeeded Jurgen Klopp in June 2024 and guided Liverpool to their historic 20th English league title before leaving after a disappointing second season, paving the way for Andoni Iraola’s appointment earlier this summer.
In his farewell message, Edwards expressed pride in the progress made during his return while thanking everyone connected with Liverpool and Fenway Sports Group.
“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 also reflected on the wider ambitions he hoped to achieve across FSG’s football operations.
“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 help shape FSG’s wider football ambitions.
“While that broader project ultimately evolved differently to how we had originally envisaged, 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.”
Edwards concluded by paying tribute to the club’s owners, colleagues and supporters.
“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. I will always be grateful to have been part of its story.”
Although his second spell has come to an end, Edwards leaves behind a legacy that helped reshape Liverpool both on and off the pitch.
From his celebrated recruitment strategy to his role in guiding the club through a major leadership transition, his influence will continue to be felt as Liverpool enter another important chapter under a new football structure and fresh ambitions for the 2026/27 campaign.
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