Liverpool Sporting Director Richard Hughes Steps Down to Join Al-Hilal

Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes has stepped down from his role at the club and is set to move to Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal. Hughes had been at Anfield since June 2024, having previously held a similar position at Bournemouth, and his departure had been anticipated even though his contract was not due to expire until June 2027.

His exit comes after a summer in which he oversaw around £200 million in transfer spending, including the signing of Bradley Barcola from Paris Saint-Germain. In a statement released by Liverpool, Hughes said he would always follow and support the club with great affection, wishing everyone involved success for this season and beyond.

The 47-year-old joined Liverpool following Jurgen Klopp's departure and played a central role in bringing in his successor, Arne Slot, who guided the club to a 20th Premier League title in his first season in charge. During his time at Anfield, Hughes also oversaw the club's record £125 million signing of Alexander Isak last summer, along with the £116 million arrival of Florian Wirtz.

Despite that early success under Slot, Liverpool were unable to sustain their form and finished fifth last season, a slump that led to Slot's own departure and his replacement by Andoni Iraola , a manager Hughes had previously worked alongside during his time at Bournemouth.

Mike Gordon, president of Fenway Sports Group, which owns Liverpool, said the club respected Hughes' decision and wished him and his family well as they move into their next venture.

Hughes' switch to Al-Hilal comes as the Saudi club continues an aggressive spending spree, having committed close to £180 million to signing players from the Premier League this summer. The 21-time Saudi champions, managed by former Inter Milan boss Simone Inzaghi, have already brought in Brazil winger Gabriel Martinelli from Arsenal for £60 million and England striker Ollie Watkins from Aston Villa in a £51 million deal, as well as Netherlands midfielder Cyrenscio Summerville from West Ham for a further £60 million.