Liverpool’s major boost has come as a blow to rivals Manchester United as Michael Edwards reportedly close to Anfield return.
Liverpool are reportedly closing in on a deal to bring back highly-regarded executive Michael Edwards to the club, outmaneuvering competition from Manchester United. Edwards, who departed Anfield in 2022, is being courted by the Reds ahead of what promises to be a significant summer of transformation.
According to The Athletic, Edwards is close to agreeing with Fenway Sports Group for a prominent position where he would assume responsibility for football operations at Anfield.
The move is anticipated to include the appointment of Richard Hughes, recently departed from a similar role at Bournemouth, as sporting director alongside Edwards.
His potential return is viewed as a significant triumph, especially with the imminent departure of long-standing head coach Jurgen Klopp at the conclusion of the current season.
Edwards’ comeback is seen as instrumental in reshaping the club’s future after the exit of this season’s recruitment lead, Jorg Schmadtke, and the expected departure of most of Klopp’s staff.
Meanwhile, over at Manchester United, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS are orchestrating a comparable revamp, making Edwards’ potential return to club football particularly intriguing for them.
The 44-year-old has reportedly declined approaches from both the Red Devils and Chelsea in the past, despite their eagerness to work with him following his significant success at Liverpool. He played a pivotal role in bringing top talents like Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk to the club.
This summer, rather than making similar moves for United or Chelsea, Edwards has the opportunity to replicate his successes at Liverpool with their new manager.
Whether it’s Xabi Alonso, Ruben Amorim, or Julian Naglesmann who takes over from Klopp, they will benefit from Edwards’ familiarity with the club and his ability to facilitate their success.
Meanwhile, at Old Trafford, United are still finalising their executive team and deliberating whether Erik ten Hag is the right head coach to lead them forward.
Newcastle’s sporting director, Dan Ashworth, has been placed on gardening leave due to interest from INEOS, but there’s uncertainty about when or if he’ll make the move.
John Murtough has previously overseen United’s recruitment, but it’s unclear whether his role will remain the same or be reduced under Ratcliffe’s leadership. Omar Berrada has replaced Richard Arnold as the new CEO.
Despite not having a head coach, Liverpool believe they are better equipped than their rivals to navigate a period of transformation. With the potential addition of Alonso alongside Edwards, they could become a formidable force in the Premier League.
In other Liverpool news, One Thing Jurgen Klopp Must Do to Secure Liverpool’s Greatest Ever Feat Before Leaving