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Michael Edwards: The Kingpin of Liverpool’s New Era

The news that John Henry and Fenway Sports Group are set to reward Michael Edwards with a new long-term contract feels like the natural next step in Liverpool’s evolution. Edwards’ return in June 2024 already looks like the defining executive move of the modern era, bridging the seismic transition from Jürgen Klopp to Arne Slot with a level of calmness that few thought possible. Liverpool did not just survive losing one of the greatest managers in their history — they immediately won the Premier League under Slot, despite all pundits’ predictions of a period of transition. That does not happen without Edwards steering the ship, which is why both his initial and current tenures are truly remarkable.

For me, it is the clearest sign that FSG have learned from past mistakes, which I have always felt was their strength. They took their share of criticism, banners flying against them and supporters questioning whether they truly understood what makes this club tick. Yet when it comes to major decisions, Henry and his group have consistently found the right answers and not been swayed by emotion. Securing Edwards long-term proves once again that they know how to value world-class talent off the pitch as much as on it.

Building a Squad for the Present and the Future

Edwards’ decision to appoint Richard Hughes as Sporting Director was another masterstroke, following a period without any real general in charge of off-field duties. Together, they have transformed Liverpool’s squad across two summers, not only making bold, eye-watering purchases but also generating huge income from players who were not part of this next phase or simply surplus and easily replaced. It takes a ruthless streak to sell assets while supporters are still emotionally attached, but it also takes vision — and Edwards has that in abundance.

As I see it, Liverpool is not just competing for the now; they are building a foundation for the next decade under the watch of the 45-year-old. The start of the 2025/26 season has already underlined that strength, with three wins from three and a team playing with freshness and authority. While Arne Slot rightly receives praise for implementing his football ideas, the truth is he has been given the perfect tools. Edwards and Hughes have ensured there are no glaring gaps, no lingering weaknesses, just a squad balanced to challenge at the very top.

This is why tying the south coast-born Edwards down is more than just rewarding past success. It is about protecting Liverpool’s future, for generations to come. When your structure is this strong, you cannot afford to let the architect walk away and in essence, he is the man you hand complete control.

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The Multi-Club Model and FSG’s Vision

Looking ahead, I believe Edwards will also be central to FSG’s wider ambitions. The whispers of a multi-club model are no accident and look like a much needed boost for recruitment possibilities. Expanding the FSG stable by adding one or two more teams would open the door to clever recruitment from Europe and South America — markets where Liverpool, despite their stature, sometimes find themselves priced out or unable to offer minutes against lesser clubs. With Edwards overseeing that strategy, the Reds could tap into younger talent earlier, bringing them through a controlled pipeline before they reach the main stage at Anfield, whilst improving the fortunes of that chosen multi-club entity.

For me, this is the real genius of FSG’s latest move. Far from being detached owners, they are proving themselves shrewd custodians of Liverpool’s future value. Edwards is not just the Sporting CEO; he is the Kingpin of a project that stretches far beyond Merseyside. In a football landscape dominated by questionable money and reckless ownership, Liverpool is instead run by the smartest man in the room — backed by an ownership group finally receiving the credit they deserve.

And in my opinion, that combination is priceless and could lead to an unparalleled period of success.

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