Liverpool’s ownership structure is set for significant upheaval after Fenway Sports Group confirmed that chief of football Michael Edwards will leave his role.
Edwards, who returned to Liverpool for a second time in 2024, will exit before his contract expires, having already served out his notice period.
The departure could trigger a broader series of exits at both Liverpool and Fenway Sports Group, with further senior figures reportedly on their way out.
Sporting director Richard Hughes is reportedly set to join Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal this summer, compounding the sense of instability at the top of the club.
The boardroom shake-up follows a turbulent period for Liverpool, who finished fifth in the Premier League last season and also saw manager Arne Slot leave the club.
A statement from FSG confirmed the news, reading: “Fenway Sports Group today announced that Michael Edwards will leave his role as CEO of football prior to the start of Liverpool FC’s pre-season preparations, bringing to a close his second tenure with the organisation.”
The statement added that during his tenure Edwards “oversaw Liverpool’s operation while also supporting the continued development of FSG’s wider football operations.”
Edwards first joined Liverpool in 2011 and held a number of senior roles at Merseyside during his initial spell before his return in 2024.
His second stint was partly shaped by efforts to advance FSG’s broader football strategy, which ultimately struggled to gain traction with the group’s planned multi-club expansion shelved.
Plans to build a multi-club football network, similar to those operated by City Football Group, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Black Knight, and Brighton owner Tony Bloom, were mothballed, drawing widespread criticism.
Many within the game viewed the failure to establish a multi-club model as a significant strategic setback for FSG, leaving Liverpool trailing its rivals in that regard.
Fenway Sports Group’s broader sporting portfolio includes MLB side the Boston Red Sox, NHL franchise the Pittsburgh Penguins, and the TGL golf franchise Boston Common Golf.
Edwards said in a statement: “It has been a privilege to return to Liverpool Football Club at such an important moment.”
FSG president Mike Gordon paid tribute to the departing executive, saying: “Michael has made an extraordinary contribution to Liverpool Football Club and Fenway Sports Group throughout his time with our organisation.”
Gordon continued: “On behalf of John Henry, Tom Werner and everyone at Fenway Sports Group, I would like to thank Michael for his outstanding service, friendship, and leadership, and wish him and his family every success and happiness in the future.”