Richard Hughes has stepped down as Liverpool’s sporting director and is set to join Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal.
Hughes, 47, had been in the role since June 2024 after leaving a similar position at Bournemouth. His departure had been expected, with his Liverpool contract due to expire in June 2027.
He oversaw a major transfer window for Liverpool this summer, with the club spending about £200m, including the signing of Bradley Barcola from Paris Saint-Germain.
“I’ll always follow and support the club with great affection, and I wish everyone involved nothing but success for this season and beyond,” Hughes said in a statement released by Liverpool.
Hughes joined Liverpool shortly after the departure of long-serving manager Jurgen Klopp and played a key role in the appointment of Arne Slot.
Slot guided Liverpool to their 20th Premier League title in his first season, but his tenure ended after the club finished fifth last season.
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Hughes also oversaw Liverpool’s record £125m signing of Alexander Isak last summer, as well as the £116m arrival of Florian Wirtz.
He was involved in the appointment of Andoni Iraola as Slot’s successor, having previously worked with the Spanish manager at Bournemouth.
Mike Gordon, president of Liverpool owners Fenway Sports Group, said: “We respect Richard’s life choices and wish him and his family well in their next venture.”
Hughes is now set to join Al-Hilal, who were among the biggest spenders in the Saudi Pro League during the summer transfer window.
The Saudi club spent almost £180m on Premier League players, including £60m on Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli, £51m on Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins and £60m on West Ham forward Crysencio Summerville.
Hughes’ departure means Liverpool are now searching for their fifth sporting director since 2022, following Michael Edwards, Julian Ward and Jorg Schmadtke.
