Michael Edwards has quit Liverpool for a second time in four years.
Edwards renewed his Anfield ties in March 2024 when he took up a newly-created role with club owners Fenway Sports Group under the title of CEO of Football.
He was integral in the Reds’ appointment of Richard Hughes as sporting director, a position which he previously held for six years from 2016 before his original exit.
But Edwards’ primary remit was to oversee the American hierarchy’s plans for a multi-club network which ultimately failed to materialise despite extensive talks.
Three clubs emerged as potential additions in La Liga mainstays Getafe, newly-promoted Malaga and former Ligue 1 outfit Bordeaux but neither progressed.
FSG are understood to have received noticed of Edwards’ decision to leave last autumn at a time when he believed that Liverpool’s future plans were in the works.
The 47-year-old’s departure means that ownership responsibility for Liverpool’s day-to-day operations will pass back to FSG president Mike Gordon in the interim.
“It has been a privilege to return to Fenway Sports Group and Liverpool Football Club at such an important moment,” said Edwards.
“I leave believing Liverpool is in a strong position, with outstanding people, a clear direction and the foundations in place for continued success.
“When I returned, I was excited not only by the opportunity to help guide Liverpool through an important period of transition, but also by the chance to help shape FSG’s wider football ambitions.
“While that broader project ultimately evolved differently to how we had originally envisaged, I am proud of the work our team undertook in presenting ownership with a broad range of thoughtful and well-developed options for the future.
“I’d like to thank Mike, John (Henry), Tom (Werner) and everyone across FSG and Liverpool for their support and friendship and, most importantly, the supporters, whose passion makes this club so special.
“I will always be grateful to have been part of its story.”