Michael Edwards’ Return: A Constant in Liverpool 2.0
The return of Michael Edwards signifies not just a genius and savvy appointment by Fenway Sports Group but also a much-needed constant in a time of heavy change at Anfield. With Jurgen Klopp’s departure on the horizon, many Liverpool fans were somewhat nervous about the work being done behind the scenes after the German’s departure.
However, with Edwards’ return, there will remain a strong foundation from Liverpool’s success in recent years. That will undoubtedly fill Liverpool supporters with much-needed confidence as they head into life after Klopp.
But some may ask, what about Edwards, who can bring such stability and intelligence to the club? Well, that’s what we’re going to examine today.
Incredible Transfer Record
Perhaps one of the most well-known successes of Michael Edwards’ career in football is his brilliance in the transfer market. Most notably, his decision to overrule Klopp’s pursuit of Julian Brandt in favour of a move for Mohamed Salah remains one of the most incredible pieces of business in recent times.
Whilst the £35million acquisition of Salah from Roma is massively impressive, it is just one of many incredible deals done under Edwards’s stewardship. Edwards and his team signed the likes of Alisson Becker, Sadio Mane, Fabinho, Andy Robertson, Gini Wijnaldum, and Virgil Van Dijk.
Whilst Liverpool’s ability in the market has remained critical to their success, it’s hard to deny how incredible Edwards’ work was. Edwards will also have a number of hurdles to overcome on this occasion, with long-term replacements for Mohamed Salah and Virgil Van Dijk at the top of their list of priorities.
Key Decision-Making
Edwards has showcased a genuine ability to make the right decisions even in the most pressured situations. With Jurgen Klopp’s departure on the horizon, Edwards will face a crucial decision within his first weeks back at Liverpool. The first thing Edwards will be looking to ensure is that Liverpool secures the correct replacement for Klopp while also providing a smooth transition for the next head coach.
Liverpool’s ambitious move to bring Edwards back could massively encourage the likes of Xabi Alonso to trust the process at Anfield. Along with Richard Hughes, the sporting director, they could play a pivotal role in appointing Alonso or Amorim.
Next Steps
With plans reportedly in place for FSG to buy partner clubs for Liverpool, the next few years could be fascinating to see how Liverpool progresses off the field. Hughes is likely to handle that aspect, while Edwards focuses on the ‘football operations’.
The upcoming summer transfer window could be fascinating with Edwards in charge, but regardless, it’s hard to deny that Liverpool is in a much better position than they were just a week ago. I’m certainly massively excited by Edwards’s return and look forward to seeing the progress that he and Hughes can make to aid the next head coach and really kickstart this new era at Anfield.
