Michael Edwards left his role as chief executive officer of football at Fenway Sports Group (FSG), the owners of Liverpool FC, on July 10, 2026, completing a planned transition after fulfilling key strategic goals [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6].
Edwards returned to FSG in March 2024 with the mandate to oversee the transition from Jürgen Klopp and to expand FSG's football portfolio through multi-club ownership [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6]. He was originally Liverpool’s sporting director from 2016 to 2022 and credited with assembling the squad that won the 2019-20 English league title, ending the club’s 30-year domestic title drought [1, 2, 6].
During Edwards' tenure as CEO of football, Liverpool won their 20th English league title in 2025 under head coach Arne Slot, who had replaced Klopp in June 2024 [1, 2, 4, 5, 6]. However, after a disappointing second season, Slot was replaced by Andoni Iraola in June 2026 [1, 2, 4, 5, 6].
FSG abandoned plans to acquire a second club—reportedly considering teams like Getafe, Bordeaux, and Málaga—affecting Edwards' remit and prompting his decision to depart [3, 5, 6]. Edwards’ contract had one year remaining at the time of his exit, but it was reportedly a voluntary departure without compensation [3, 5].
FSG president Mike Gordon praised Edwards, saying, "We are naturally disappointed about Michael Edwards' exit. He made an extraordinary contribution to Liverpool and FSG" [2, 5, 6]. Edwards said, "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" [1].
FSG has not announced a replacement for Edwards and may choose not to fill the CEO of football role directly [1, 3, 4]. Liverpool’s sporting director Richard Hughes is linked with a possible move to Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal, adding further uncertainty around the club’s football management [2, 3, 5, 6].
