Liverpool have been left shocked today after learning that Julian Ward plans to leave in 2023, and another key figure is also expected to leave Anfield.
What’s the story?
Well, according to Goal, the Reds are surprised and disappointed with Ward after he told them that he wants to leave at the end of the season, despite only taking the reins from Michael Edwards back in the summer.
It is said that the changes in organisational structure, which came after Fenway Sports Group (FSG) put Liverpool up for sale, played a big part in Ward’s decision to leave his role as Director of Football at Anfield.
Ward has no plans to join another club, and is said to simply want a break from football.
Ian Graham – the highly rated Director of Research at Liverpool – has also resigned, according to The Athletic.
Liverpool are said to have no doubts about Ward’s integrity in his role, and fully expect him to complete his duties to the best of his ability before leaving in the summer.
The shock decision comes after Liverpool’s Sporting Director oversaw the club-record £85m signing of Darwin Nunez, while he was also behind Mohamed Salah’s new contract.
Ward also played a significant role in signing Luis Diaz from Porto, with that deal coming back in January while Edwards was engaged in a handover period before his own resignation.
Clearly, Liverpool are having problems in holding down a Director of Football at Anfield.
Liverpool have an opportunity after Julian Ward decision
With FSG potentially leaving Liverpool soon as well, should they find a buyer to take the Reds off their hands, Jürgen Klopp will be feeling quite lonely.
However, this represents a huge opportunity for Liverpool to start afresh, hire some bright thinkers in the recruitment department, and complete the squad overhaul they so desperately need in order to stay competitive.
Of course, the main thing is finding new owners, but once that happens, there is a blank slate for those who take over to really put their stamp on Liverpool, so the current upheaval could turn out to be a blessing in disguise.
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