It’s not just a new era on the pitch for Liverpool, who are yet to lose under Andoni Iraola, it’s also a new era away from the action following the departure of Richard Hughes.
The Reds knew that their sporting director was swapping Anfield for Saudi Arabia for some time and were left to battle through a hectic summer. Much of that battle involved Julian Ward, who has operated behind the scenes under FSG in many capacities since 2012.
Hughes’ departure commenced a search for a new sporting director, but that search did not last long with Ward around. The 45-year-old has finally been rewarded for his work and is Liverpool’s new sporting director.
When Ward was involved in transfers in the past, he had a fairly impressive success rate. Luis Diaz, Cody Gakpo and Alexis Mac Allister all became Premier League winners, whilst Calvin Ramsay, Darwin Nunez and Fabio Carvalho stand out as particular failures.
This time around, his job is arguably more important. Liverpool are coming off the back of a managerial sacking and will be desperate to make things work under new boss Iraola.
A new era has already welcomed fresh faces, but more are likely to be on the way – including a young star who has been on Ward’s radar for years.
Liverpool to receive green light in Gilberto Mora race
As reported by Football Insider, Liverpool are set to get the green light to sign Gilberto Mora from Mexican side Tijuana next summer. The Reds, and Ward, have been tracking the teenager for some time and will finally have the chance to secure his signature from October onwards when he turns 18.
Reports have claimed that Mora is increasingly likely to complete a move into Europe next summer, with Bayern Munich and Real Madrid among the clubs joining Liverpool in the race to secure his signature.
Tijuana will not stand in his way and intend to cash in on their starlet next year. That’s a major boost for Liverpool, who could land one of the most impressive young attackers in world football.
|
Gilberto Mora 26/27 |
|
|---|---|
|
Minutes |
499 |
|
Goals |
5 |
|
Assists |
1 |
|
Dribble success |
53.8% |
|
Chances created |
9 |
Dubbed “phenomenal” by scout Jacek Kulig, Mora is absolutely ready for his next career step.
At senior level in Mexico, he has already been involved in six goals in 499 minutes. At just 17 years old, he is arguably Tijuana’s main star and, to put it simply, he is one of the best young players in the world.
Liverpool rebuilt their attack in the summer and welcoming another young, versatile forward would add the cherry on top for Iraola.