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When Arne Slot was unveiled as Liverpool’s new head coach in June 2024, the phrasing of his title—distinct from Klopp’s “manager” role—was no oversight.

The shift reflects Fenway Sports Group’s (FSG) strategic move toward a modern football structure, where responsibilities are divided between coaching and executive leadership.

Under Klopp, Liverpool operated under a traditional British managerial model, with the German wielding significant influence over transfers, contracts, and broader club strategy.

Slot, by contrast, steps into a role focused squarely on “training, tactics, and match preparation,” as defined by FSG’s restructured hierarchy.

This aligns with trends across European football, where clubs increasingly favor collaborative models to mitigate risks tied to a single visionary.

Central to this transition are Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes, whose appointments as CEO of Football and sporting director, respectively, anchor Liverpool’s new operational framework.

Michael Edwards: Promoted to oversee FSG’s football operations, Edwards now holds a “high-powered role” that extends beyond Anfield.

His remit includes strategic oversight of Liverpool’s recruitment, contracts, and potential multi-club ventures, leveraging his prior success as sporting director (2016–2022).

Richard Hughes: Tasked with day-to-day squad building, Hughes bridges Edwards’ vision and Slot’s tactical needs?

The ex-Bournemouth technical director, renowned for unearthing gems like Milos Kerkez, brings a data-informed approach honed over a decade in recruitment.

But it seems Slot’s role in transfer may have been understated when the Dutchman initially joined the club.

What is Arne Slot role in Liverpool transfers

The Athletic have asserted that while Arne Slot does not wield as much power as Jurgen Klopp did in the past regarding transfers, he is still more involved than perhaps initially reported.

Repoter Gregg Evans writes that the Dutchman has a ‘major say’ in player transfers:

“Since replacing FSG president Mike Gordon, Edwards has been looking into multi-club model opportunities and only gets involved with Liverpool for major financial decisions.”

“When the club generate money, it’s up to Hughes and Edwards to decide how it is reinvested.”

“Slot also has a major say in who he wants in his squad — although, as a head coach, he is not as deeply involved as former manager Klopp had been.”

Liverpool’s restructured approach doesn’t reduce the head coach’s importance—rather, it maximizes the potential of each role.

While Slot focuses on securing victories through tactical acumen and on-field leadership, Edwards and Hughes are tasked with crafting an environment and squad that set the stage for success.

But with the Reds boss explaining why he wanted Martin Zubimendi back in January, it’s also clear that Slot is significant factor in player transfers as well.

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