RICHARD HUGHES has stepped down from his role as Liverpool’s sporting director.
He made the move to the Reds in June 2024 from Premier League rivals Bournemouth.
Hughes, 47, helped Liverpool win their 20th Premier League title in his first year at Anfield.
However, after just two years in the role he has now left the club to seek a new opportunity.
Liverpool confirmed his decision with a statement.
It read: “Liverpool FC can confirm Richard Hughes has stepped down as sporting director.
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“Hughes, who moved to Anfield from AFC Bournemouth in June 2024, departs with the best wishes of everyone at LFC having informed the club’s ownership of his desire to seek a fresh challenge.
“During his tenure, we won our 20th league title in 2024-25 and achieved Champions League qualification in the following season.”
Hughes has spoken about his exit from the club and insisted his work has been a “great pride”.
He said: “First and foremost, I would like to reiterate what I said upon my arrival – it has been a source of great pride to have been given the opportunity to serve this incredible and unique institution. That is something I will always be grateful for.
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“My appreciation extends to ownership for their support and leadership, to club staff at all levels who give so much to make Liverpool FC what it is, to the players who make such an enormous contribution and to the fans who support the team in great numbers whenever and wherever games take place.
“I’ll always follow and support the club with great affection, and I wish everyone involved nothing but success for this season and beyond.”
Fenway Sports Group president Mike Gordon has thanked Hughes for his efforts during his two years at Liverpool.
He added: “Richard joined us at the start of a period of change, embracing that responsibility by leading our football operations department and overseeing recruitment while also providing valuable support to our coaching staff.
“The results we achieved in these areas during this period are testament to this contribution.
“Nevertheless, we respect Richard’s life choices and wish him and his family well in their next venture.”
In March, Hughes was linked with a role at Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal.
Liverpool have also confirmed that the process of appointing a successor is underway.