Liverpool could be facing another major off-pitch change just as their new era under Andoni Iraola begins.According to Sacha Tavolieri, current sporting director Richard Hughes is in advanced talks with Saudi officials over becoming Al Hilal’s new sporting director.The reported plan from the Saudi side is not for an immediate exit.Instead, Al Hilal are prepared to let Hughes work on Liverpool’s next transfer window before potentially making the move later.
In reality, it still creates uncertainty at a time when Liverpool need clarity more than anything.A key figure in the Andoni Iraola projectLiverpool Richard Hughes (Photo by Jack Thomas/Getty Images)Hughes has already played an important role in Liverpool’s latest reset.He was heavily involved in the appointment of Iraola, having worked with him previously at Bournemouth.That relationship was seen as one of the reasons Liverpool moved quickly and confidently for the Spaniard after Arne Slot’s departure.Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a to your favourites list for news you can trustLosing Hughes so soon after that appointment would not be ideal.
Iraola needs a sporting director who understands his football, his personality and the type of players required to make his system work.Liverpool are expected to be active this summer, with defensive reinforcements, midfield additions and attacking changes all possible. That makes the sporting director role hugely important.
