Hughes ends Liverpool tenure after two years as Saudi move looms

Liverpool have announced the departure of sporting director Richard Hughes after almost two years in the role, with widespread reports suggesting he is set to take up the same position at Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal.

The Scottish executive resigned to pursue a new challenge, Liverpool said in a statement on the club’s official website. The Premier League club added that it is now working to identify Hughes’ successor.

Liverpool did not disclose the nature of the opportunity awaiting Hughes. However, previous media reports have indicated that he is expected to become Al Hilal’s new sporting director after the conclusion of the summer transfer window, which ended on Tuesday.

Al Hilal have already laid foundations for Hughes’ anticipated arrival by reaching agreements with members of his preferred staff. Among them is Englishman Simon Francis, who has taken responsibility for managing the club’s transfer-market operations during the current summer window.

Hughes, 45, thanked Liverpool’s hierarchy, staff, players and supporters in a farewell message published by the club.

“First and foremost, I want to reiterate what I said upon my arrival: it has been a huge source of pride for me to have this opportunity to serve this wonderful and unique institution, and that is something I will always be grateful for,” he said.

“My appreciation also extends to the leadership and owners for their support and guidance, and to the club’s employees at every level who do so much to make Liverpool the club it is today, as well as to the players who make an immense contribution.”

He added: “And also to the supporters, who back the team in huge numbers whenever and wherever the matches take place. I will always follow and support the club with great affection, and I wish everyone involved all the very best and every success this season and beyond.”

Hughes became Liverpool’s sporting director in June 2024, having previously held the same position at Bournemouth. He succeeded Jorg Schmadtke, who left the club after a brief spell in the role.

During Hughes’ time at Anfield, Liverpool won the Premier League title for the second time in the club’s history and secured their 20th top-flight championship overall. The team also reached the UEFA Champions League in both of the seasons covered by his tenure.

His departure comes at a significant moment for Liverpool, who must now appoint a successor while continuing to shape the club’s recruitment strategy. The timing of Hughes’ exit has also fuelled expectations that he will soon begin his next role with Al Hilal, although neither Saudi club nor Hughes has formally confirmed that appointment.

Liverpool’s statement did not provide a timetable for naming the next sporting director.