Jurgen Klopp showdown talks and five things Liverpool have to do next after Michael Edwards FSG return

After Jurgen Klopp’s decision to step down as Liverpool manager was made public in January, Fenway Sports Group were determined to bring one man back to the club.

FSG announced that Michael Edwards would be joining the group as CEO of Football on Tuesday, with his new role seeing the 44-year-old oversee the day-to-day running of football operations at Anfield. While not directly returning to the Reds, he is back in a senior role at Liverpool having stepped down as the club’s sporting director in the summer of 2022.

President Mike Gordon is returning to a more traditional ownership role within the group, having previously overseen day-to-day management at Anfield, with Edwards inheriting his responsibilities as a result.

He had rejected an initial offer from FSG following Klopp’s decision being made public, and had previously snubbed approaches from both Chelsea and Manchester United to return to football as head of operations. But a second pitch from the Reds’ American owners over face-to-face talks in Boston prompted Edwards to reconsider.

Michael Edwards speaks out on what convinced him to make Liverpool return after FSG offer

Inside FSG's masterplan to bring back Michael Edwards as key factor emerges in Liverpool return

“I was humbled by the desire and persistence they showed in wanting to work with me again,” he said in an FSG statement confirming his appointment. “This is definitely not something that I take for granted given their track record across sport and business.”

Meanwhile, Gordon would share his delight at FSG’s pursuit ultimately proving to be successful.

“Michael is one of the most formidable executive talents in world football and John, Tom, and I are absolutely thrilled to have secured his services