Michael Edwards was 'frustrated' by FSG decision before quitting Liverpool job

Michael Edwards was not pleased with FSG after promises were made to him after he returned in 2024, while leaving one year earlier than his contract after announcing his intentions last year

Michael Edwards was said to be 'frustrated' with Liverpool owners Fenway Sports Group (FSG) after returning to the club in 2024, having been told that they planned to purchase another European football club — something that is yet to happen.

Edwards served as Liverpool's sporting director for the majority of Jurgen Klopp's tenure, while being seen as responsible for signings such as Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane, and Andy Robertson. He left Liverpool in 2022, before returning two years later to lead the post-Jurgen Klopp era.

However, he would do so in a different role — working more so with FSG than Liverpool — while admitting that a multi-club model was crucial in convincing him to accept the newly created role of CEO of football at FSG. The group is yet to purchase a club two years later, with those plans seemingly sidelined, reportedly leaving Edwards frustrated and prompting his exit.

The Athletic has suggested that Edwards was very keen on FSG finding a second club, with the frustrations coming from their failure to do so.

Edwards had offers from Manchester United and Chelsea after leaving Liverpool in 2022.

He brought in Richard Hughes to be the club's sporting director, who is reportedly set to leave Liverpool at the end of the summer to join Al-Hilal.

It is understood Mike Gordon, the president of FSG, will now once again run day-to-day operations at the football club. Gordon has held the role previously.

Hughes appears to be the man to be in full control of transfers at the Reds, a role which Andoni Iraola did not hold while he was with Bournemouth, where he also worked with him.

A statement from Edwards said: "It has been a privilege to return to Fenway Sports Group and Liverpool Football Club at such an important moment.

“I leave believing Liverpool is in a strong position, with outstanding people, a clear direction and the foundations in place for continued success.

“When I returned, I was excited not only by the opportunity to help guide Liverpool through an important period of transition, but also by the chance to help shape FSG’s wider football ambitions.

"While that broader project ultimately evolved differently to how we had originally envisaged, I am proud of the work our team undertook in presenting ownership with a broad range of thoughtful and well-developed options for the future.

“I’d like to thank Mike, John (Henry), Tom (Werner) and everyone across FSG and Liverpool for their support and friendship and, most importantly, the supporters, whose passion makes this club so special. I will always be grateful to have been part of its story.”

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