Liverpool are searching for a new sporting director after Richard Hughes brought his two-year stay at Anfield to an end.

The Reds confirmed Hughes’ departure today, only days after the summer transfer window closed, but his decision was communicated to Fenway Sports Group months ago, although he agreed to remain and see Liverpool’s summer business through.

That allowed Hughes to finish a busy window which included the arrival of Bradley Barcola from PSG. His exit had therefore been expected inside Anfield, even if supporters were made to wait for official confirmation.

Hughes joined from Bournemouth in June 2024 and immediately found himself at the heart of a huge change.

Jürgen Klopp had left, Arne Slot arrived and Liverpool went on to win the Premier League title in the Dutchman’s first campaign.

The following season was far more difficult. Slot was dismissed after a disappointing title defence, with Hughes then involved in bringing Andoni Iraola to Merseyside.

His time in charge also delivered a host of expensive signings, including Florian Wirtz, Alexander Isak, Hugo Ekitiké and Barcola. Yet the balance of the squad remained a major talking point, particularly after such heavy spending.

Attention will now turn to Saudi Arabia.

Hughes has been strongly linked with Al Hilal and is expected to take up a senior position with the Saudi Pro League club.

Former Bournemouth defender Simon Francis is already working there as technical director, which would reunite Hughes with a trusted former colleague.

Liverpool insist Al Hilal did not ask to take Hughes early and believe his work throughout the transfer window was carried out exclusively for the Reds.

Now, a familiar face could step back into the spotlight.

Liverpool to consider Julian Ward to replace Richard Hughes

The Athletic report that Julian Ward is among the internal candidates Liverpool will consider as they look for Hughes’ replacement.

Assistant sporting director David Woodfine and FSG director of football development Pedro Marques are also possible options, while an outside appointment has not been ruled out.

Ward would offer instant knowledge of the club and its recruitment operation.

He spent more than a decade at Liverpool before succeeding Michael Edwards as sporting director in 2022.

His stay in that job was brief, with Ward stepping down in 2023, but he returned the following year as FSG’s technical director. His current work has a wider focus on player development, yet he remains closely connected to the Anfield setup.

FSG president Mike Gordon is leading the search after Edwards also left his senior position this summer.

That puts continuity high on the agenda at a time when Liverpool can ill afford another long period of uncertainty behind the scenes.

Ward would not require an introduction to the people, systems or pressure that come with the job. No decision has been made, but a second spell as Liverpool sporting director is now firmly on the table.