NEWS · 05 Sep 2026
Hughes steps down as Liverpool sporting director
Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes has resigned, with the club confirming his departure. Hughes will join Saudi club Al‑Hilal in a new role, marking a significant shift for both parties.
Liverpool announced that sporting director Richard Hughes has stepped down from his position, effective immediately. The club confirmed the decision in a statement to the media.
Hughes joined Liverpool in 2018 and was responsible for overseeing player recruitment, scouting, and the club’s long‑term sporting strategy. His tenure saw the club sign several key players and maintain a competitive squad in domestic and European competitions.
Following his resignation, Hughes has accepted a role with Saudi Arabian club Al‑Hilal. The move comes as the Saudi club looks to strengthen its sporting department ahead of its domestic and continental campaigns.
For Liverpool, the departure of Hughes will prompt a search for a new sporting director who can continue the club’s development plans. The board has indicated that the transition will be managed with the aim of ensuring stability for the team and its future projects.
Both Liverpool and Al‑Hilal will now focus on their respective next steps, with Liverpool preparing to fill the vacancy and Al‑Hilal integrating Hughes into its organisational structure.