Michael Edwards has left his role as chief executive officer (CEO) of football for Fenway Sports Group (FSG), who own Liverpool, leaving the club ahead of the 2026/27 season.
A statement from FSG added it was a “planned transition”, bringing an end to two spells at Anfield for Edwards.
He spent over a decade at the club between 2011 and 2022, firstly as performance director before becoming sporting director in 2016.
He returned as CEO in March 2024, overseeing all football operations at Liverpool, as Jurgen Klopp prepared to leave the club. Edwards was credited with signing key players that helped the Reds to the 2019/20 Premier League – their first league title since 1990.
Arne Slot took over in June 2024 leading Liverpool to their 20th Premier League title. However, he was replaced by Andoni Iraola in early June after a below-par second season.
An FSG statement added: “Edwards’ departure marks the culmination of a planned transition following the completion of key strategic priorities.
Edwards helped steer Liverpool to success under Jurgen Klopp, before initially leaving the club in 2022
“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.
“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.”
His departure comes ahead of the 2026/27 campaign and amid a summer transfer window where replacing Mohamed Salah will be one of the biggest tasks.
There is also speculation that Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes could be on the move, which would further shake up the hierarchy at the club.
Richard Hughes (right) is also rumoured to be leaving Liverpool this summer
Edwards added in a statement: “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.
“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.
“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.”
