Liverpool Sporting Director Richard Hughes To Exit Anfield For Al-Hilal Following Internal Power Struggle With Arne Slot

Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes is set to join Al-Hilal this summer following a reported "civil war" with head coach Arne Slot.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 17, 2026, 12:38 PM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Football365

The Collapse of the Sporting Director and Head Coach Relationship

The hierarchical structure at Liverpool is set for a major transition following reports that sporting director Richard Hughes has agreed to a move to the Middle East. After a challenging campaign at Anfield that saw the club fall 21 points behind league leaders Arsenal, Hughes is expected to join Saudi side Al-Hilal. The departure comes amid a backdrop of internal friction with head coach Arne Slot, which reportedly ignited during the summer transfer window. Saudi journalist Ahmed Al-Ajlan confirmed that terms have been finalized between Hughes and the Pro League club, with only the formal contract signing remaining before his assistant team begins immediate preparations for a summer takeover.

Recruitment Disputes and the Anfield Civil War

The root of the "civil war" at Liverpool allegedly stems from a fundamental disagreement over the integration of youth talent versus high-profile external signings. Hughes and his recruitment department were reportedly adamant that academy prospects Rio Ngumoha and Trey Nyoni should be afforded significant first-team roles following standout pre-season performances. Conversely, Arne Slot pushed for the acquisition of established wingers such as Bradley Barcola or Malick Fofana to replace the departing Luis Diaz. The tension escalated when Hughes reportedly refused to yield to Slot's demands, insisting that the Dutchman prioritize the development of Ngumoha, a directive that Slot has largely neglected throughout the season.

A Season of Regression Following Premier League Glory

Liverpool’s current struggles on the pitch have amplified the scrutiny on the Hughes-Slot partnership. After finishing ten points clear of Arsenal to win the Premier League title last season, the Reds have undergone a dramatic regression in the 2025/26 campaign. Beyond the domestic deficit, the club faces a precarious situation in the Champions League, currently trailing 1-0 after the first leg of their last-16 tie against Galatasaray. This decline has led to growing speculation that the club’s leadership will conduct a comprehensive performance review in the summer, with rumors already circulating that Xabi Alonso could be targeted to replace Slot.