Liverpool have confirmed that Richard Hughes has stepped down from his role as sporting director, marking the club's search for a fourth individual in the position within four years.
Hughes, 47, is reportedly in line to join Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal in a similar capacity. He had informed Liverpool of his intention to leave earlier this year, following the departure of Michael Edwards, chief executive of football for Fenway Sports Group (FSG), the club's owner.
Hughes continued in the role until the end of the transfer window, having maintained a close working relationship with new head coach Andoni Iraola. Liverpool stated they received no approach from Al-Hilal for Hughes to start work this summer and are satisfied he worked solely for them during this period.
The search for Hughes's replacement is now underway, led by FSG president Mike Gordon. This appointment will follow Julian Ward and Jörg Schmadtke, who also held the role since Edwards' departure in 2022. Liverpool's wider football structure, including Ward as technical director for FSG and Pedro Marques as director of football development, will remain intact.