Richard Hughes confirmed as Al-Hilal sporting director after Liverpool exit
Richard Hughes has left Liverpool to become Al-Hilal's sporting director. The appointment follows the club's 2024-25 Premier League title win under his chosen successor, Arne Slot.
TL;DR Richard Hughes, 47, has officially departed Liverpool to join Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal as their new sporting director.
Key Points - Hughes leaves Liverpool after serving as a key figure at Anfield for two years. - He is joining a club that has already secured high-profile signings like Gabriel Martinelli and Ollie Watkins. - His departure follows the sacking of former head coach Arne Slot in June.
What We Know According to The Guardian Football, Al-Hilal confirmed the appointment on Sunday. Hughes initially joined Liverpool from Bournemouth in 2024, where he successfully appointed Arne Slot as Jürgen Klopp's successor. That decision led to Liverpool winning the Premier League title in the 2024-25 season. However, Slot was replaced by Andoni Iraola in June.
Why It Matters This move continues the trend of senior English football personnel joining Saudi clubs. It represents a significant shift for Liverpool, which is now entering a new era under Iraola without the executive who helped orchestrate the club's recent domestic success.
What Happens Next It is expected that Hughes will begin integrating with Al-Hilal's board to finalize further transfer moves for the upcoming season, though specific timelines for these negotiations have not been officially confirmed.
Related News
Keep reading about related topics and teams.
Premier League Pushes to End EFL Funding Stalemate
The Premier League is seeking to resolve its funding dispute with the EFL as soon as possible to secure the financial future of the league structure.
Rushden Criticizes Disney's Women's Champions League TV Format Shift
Max Rushden argues Disney's WCL coverage feels like a reality show, citing a golden retriever and pasta game. He uses his own TV failures to explain how such formats slip through.
Ronay: Tuchel Not Blamed for World Cup Exit as System Failure Cited
Barney Ronay argues England's World Cup failure stems from systemic issues, not Thomas Tuchel. The piece highlights Euro 2028 home advantage as a key opportunity for redemption.
Wieke Kaptein's Stunner Headlines Top Women's Champions League Goals
The BBC has compiled the best goals from week one of the Women's Champions League league stage. Chelsea's Wieke Kaptein features prominently with a stunning strike.