Liverpool have identified a potential candidate to take a major backroom role at the club this summer, as revealed by reliable journalist Gianluca Di Marzio.
The unexpected announcement of Jurgen Klopp‘s departure from Anfield at the end of the season sent shockwaves through the Reds on Friday. Despite Klopp informing higher-ups of his decision back in November, the news caught supporters off guard, leaving them in a state of disbelief.
Citing a growing lack of energy, the 56-year-old manager explained his decision to step down after nearly nine years in the role. Klopp’s tenure has been marked by immense success, including triumphs in the Champions League and Premier League, solidifying his status as one of Liverpool’s most iconic figures.
The managerial transition is not the only departure, as Klopp’s coaching staff, including highly regarded assistant manager Pep Lijnders, is set to move on. Additionally, sporting director Jorg Schmadtke will exit as early as next month, concluding his tenure on a short-term contract.
Liverpool Identify Jorg Schmadtke Replacement
As reported by Di Marzio on X, Liverpool are considering Bournemouth’s technical director, Richard Hughes, as a potential candidate to take over as sporting director this summer, replacing Schmadtke.
“Richard Hughes is a candidate at @LFC to replace Jorg Schmadtke as Sporting Director at the [start] of next season. He is currently working as Technical Director at @afcbournemouth.”
The news surrounding Klopp’s departure is poised to dominate headlines extensively, given his immense influence and prominence in the football world. Equally crucial, however, is the task of identifying Schmadtke’s successor.
In the contemporary game, the role of a sporting director holds immense significance, particularly in collaborating with the manager on new signings.
The past successful partnership between Michael Edwards and Klopp, resulting in signings like Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Alisson, underscores the vital nature of Liverpool’s next manager having the right individual alongside them.
Although Hughes may not be extensively known to Reds fans, if FSG deems him the ideal candidate to replace Schmadtke or even serve as an upgrade, their judgment deserves trust.
Interestingly, the Scot boasts a history as a former player who once thwarted Liverpool’s FA Cup journey, scoring the lone goal for Portsmouth in a fifth-round replay in 2004.
Despite their shortcomings as owners, FSG secured Klopp’s signature in 2015, and commendable appointments, such as that of Edwards, followed suit. This juncture is pivotal for FSG, as a misstep could potentially set Liverpool back after the significant progress achieved under their legendary current boss.
In other Liverpool news, Jamie Carragher Reveals Who He’d Love to Take Over from Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool After Exit Announcement