Michael Edwards, 41, will leave when his contract expires at the end of the season and his assistant is promoted.
A little about the topic
The former English professional footballer will step down as Liverpool’s sporting director at the end of the season, the Reds confirmed. Michael, one of Anfield’s most influential figures and integral to the club’s recent success, will step down when his contract expires in the summer – despite repeated efforts from the club’s owners, Fenway Sports Group, to persuade him to stay. He will be replaced by Julian Ward, who was promoted to Assistant Athletic Director last year and is seen as the ideal successor.
What did Michael Edwards say?
In an open letter to fans on the club’s official website, Michael Edwards said it was a privilege to be part of the club during this period because of the people he was lucky enough to work with and the successes they enjoyed.
Michael Edwards always planned to limit his time at the club to a maximum of 10 years. Michael loved working here, but he really believes in change. Edwards thinks it’s good for the individual and, in the work environment, is good for the employer. During his time here they changed so many things, but someone new brings a different perspective, new ideas and maybe, Edwards hopes, build on things that were set beforehand.
According to Michael Edwards, Julian Ward has been building up the skill set for this role over the years. Julian took on the role of assistant athletic director last year and over the past 12 months has been introduced to other facets of the role that are vital to his success. Michael thinks Julian is perfect for the role. Edwards will continue to support him in the coming season as they complete their leadership transition.