Liverpool have appointed Julian Ward as the club's new sporting director, succeeding Richard Hughes who left in September after just over two years in the role. Ward, 45, takes the position for a second stint, having previously served during the 2022-23 season. He joined Liverpool in 2012 as European scouting manager for Spain and Portugal, and was promoted to assistant sporting director in 2020.

After leaving at the end of the 2022-23 season, Ward returned in 2024 as Fenway Sports Group's technical director, overseeing player development pathways and the academy. FSG president Mike Gordon praised Ward's extensive experience, stating he is the ideal candidate given his deep knowledge of both the football industry and Liverpool Football Club. Ward's appointment provides much-needed stability after a summer of transition.

Described as 'calm, well-spoken and with a clear opinion and vision,' Ward previously oversaw signings of Luis Diaz, Cody Gakpo, Alexis Mac Allister and Darwin Nunez under Jurgen Klopp. His responsibilities now include securing Rio Ngumoha on a long-term deal and determining contract offers for Alisson and Virgil van Dijk before their agreements expire this summer.