Liverpool in turmoil as 'big boss' unexpectedly resigns

The Liverpool management was stunned when Michael Edwards announced his departure from the position of Managing Director of Football at Fenway Sports Group (FSG), terminating his second collaboration with the Anfield side even though his contract still had a year to run.

This decision is expected to create significant disruption within the leadership structure of the reigning Premier League champions, as Edwards has been one of the most influential figures in the club's success over the past decade.

According to British media, Edwards informed FSG in the autumn of 2025 about his intention to step back, feeling that the long-term plans for Liverpool had already been established. Despite FSG's efforts to persuade him to stay, the ownership group had to accept the decision of the 47-year-old expert.

The primary reason for the split is believed to be FSG's abandonment of plans to build a multi-club ownership model. When Edwards returned to Liverpool in March 2024, he was not only tasked with overseeing the post-Jurgen Klopp transition but also with expanding FSG's football system by acquiring another club or establishing strategic partnerships.

Over the past two years, FSG explored several targets such as Getafe and Bordeaux but failed to find a suitable deal. The plan was subsequently put on hold, causing Edwards' role to diverge from its original direction and ultimately leading to his departure.

In Liverpool's modern history, Edwards is regarded as the "brain" behind the data-driven transfer strategy. During his first tenure as sporting director from 2016 to 2022, he played a major role in bringing in a series of successful signings such as Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane, and Andy Robertson at very reasonable fees. These deals became the foundation for Liverpool's Champions League triumph in 2019 and the Premier League title in 2019/20.

After returning, Edwards continued to play a crucial role in restructuring the setup, appointing Richard Hughes as sporting director and supporting the transition on the coaching bench, ushering in a new era under Arne Slot. Liverpool then went on to win the Premier League again, marking the 20th domestic league title in the club's history.

Nevertheless, FSG insists that Edwards' departure will not affect the summer 2026 transfer plans, as all activities have been prepared in advance by Richard Hughes. However, Hughes' future is also uncertain, as he is reportedly being courted by Al Hilal. In the coming period, FSG chairman Mike Gordon is expected to take on more direct responsibilities to ensure stability in Liverpool's management, as the club enters a new phase of transformation following the departure of the person widely regarded as the architect of their success over many years.