Michael Edwards, former Liverpool sporting director (SD), laid the foundation for the current Liverpool with coach Jurgen Klopp. He left Anfield in the summer of 2022, although he was instrumental in acquiring Mohamed Salah.
His successor, former SD Julian Ward, also worked to acquire Luis Diaz, Darwin Nunez, and Alexis Mac Allister, but decided to step down after only one year in office. He left Liverpool at the end of last season.
Both are regarded as competent sporting directors. The Telegraph’s Jason Burt wrote about the pair’s departure, revealing that Manchester United had expressed interest in Edwards, but that Ward was also considering a variety of careers.
“Ward is still highly rated and officially left Liverpool in May,”
“Since then he has turned down the chance to become the director of football at Ajax and is understood to have been considered for a number of other roles.”
“It is thought that the 42-year-old is in no rush to return to football and it remains to be seen, having worked so long at Liverpool, whether he would even be interested in a role at United if they decide to make a move. United have also considered Edwards but it is believed he is not looking for a director of football or sporting director’s role at a club at present.”