Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes has officially announced his departure and will soon join Al-Hilal.

Liverpool released a statement on Saturday confirming that Richard Hughes has resigned as sporting director. Multiple media outlets, including The Daily Telegraph, have confirmed that his next destination will be Saudi giants Al-Hilal.

The 47-year-old Hughes hails from Scotland and played for Bournemouth, Portsmouth, and Grimsby Town during his playing career. He took charge of Bournemouth's technical affairs in 2014, during which time he successfully brought in several players, including Nathan Ake, Aaron Ramsdale, Dominic Solanke, Tyronn Mings, and Arnold Danjuma.

In June 2024, Hughes was officially appointed as Liverpool's sporting director. After taking office, he not only facilitated the contract extensions of Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah, but also finalized the signings of several strong players, including Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekittik, Alexander Isak, and Bradley Barcora.

Fenway Sports Group CEO Mike Gordon, on behalf of Liverpool's owners, expressed gratitude for Hughes' contributions during his tenure: "Richard joined us at the beginning of the club's transformation and took on corresponding responsibilities. He not only led our football operations and oversaw the transfer work, but also provided invaluable support to the coaching staff."

"The achievements we made in this field during this period fully demonstrate his contributions. Nevertheless, we respect Richard's life choices and wish him and his family all the best in their future endeavors."

Hughes himself said: "First of all, I want to reiterate what I said when I first arrived – I am very proud to have the opportunity to play for this extraordinary and unique club. I will always be grateful for it."

“I want to thank the club owners for their support and leadership, all the staff at all levels for their tremendous efforts in making Liverpool what it is today, the players for their outstanding contributions, and the fans for their unwavering support of the team, no matter when or where.”

"I will always have a deep affection for and support the club, and I wish all those involved great success this season and in the future."

Image source: Internet/The Sun