Liverpool: With Richard Hughes' move to Al-Hilal now confirmed, Liverpool are seeking a new sporting director for the fifth time since 2022. Hughes joined Liverpool in the summer of 2024 and oversaw the appointments of Arne Slot then Andoni Iraola. He informed the club earlier this year that he wanted to pursue a new challenge in Saudi Arabia. Mike Gordon, the president of Fenway Sports Group (FSG), is overseeing the process of finding Hughes' replacement, with Liverpool keen to make a swift appointment.

According to BBC, Liverpool will consider internal candidates but have not ruled out the possibility of appointing someone from outside the club. There is a desire to have someone that is committed long term. David Woodfine, who was Hughes' assistant and was previously Liverpool's director of loans, is one potential candidate. Julian Ward, who was Liverpool's sporting director between 2022 and 2023 and is now FSG's technical director, and Pedro Marques, FSG's director of football development, are also in the running. Outside Anfield, Luis Campos at Paris St-Germain is considered a strong candidate, though he is unlikely to leave the European champions.

Whoever replaces Hughes will face significant challenges. Key decisions include whether to retain Alisson and Virgil van Dijk, both of whom are out of contract soon. Alisson, who is 33 and has been appointed as one of Iraola's vice-captains, remains a pivotal player. Van Dijk, at 35, still plays a critical role in Liverpool's defense. Their potential departures would follow those of senior figures Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson, posing a risk to the team's experience.

In midfield, Liverpool did not strengthen over the summer following Curtis Jones' move to Inter Milan. The club is relying on Trey Nyoni, Dominik Szoboszlai, Ryan Gravenberch, and Alexis Mac Allister, despite concerns over injuries. Liverpool has considered Monaco's Lamine Camara but did not pursue a deal. Mac Allister's contract, which expires in 2028, might become a focus if no extension discussions occur.

Up front, Liverpool appears well-stocked, with signings such as Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz made under Hughes. Cody Gakpo, who was retained despite interest from Manchester City, continues to play a key role. However, as the club assesses its options, the eventual appointment of a new sporting director will also need to focus on building a relationship with Iraola to ensure stability and future success.

Billy Hogan, Liverpool's CEO, emphasized the club's healthy position despite the recent managerial changes and player departures. Iraola, who has a two-year contract, will need to establish a strong working relationship with Hughes' successor to maintain Liverpool's competitive edge.