Liverpool appoint Jörg Schmadtke as new sporting director | OneFootball

Liverpool have appointed Jörg Schmadtke as the club’s new sporting director, replacing the outgoing Julian Ward.

Schmadtke is a well respected figure in German football and was reportedly recommended to owners Fenway Sports Group by Reds manager Jürgen Klopp.

The 59-year-old is understood to have signed a contract which runs until June 2026 – the same month Klopp’s deal at Anfield runs out.

A former goalkeeper, Schmadtke has worked for a number of clubs in the Bundesliga and was most recently working as sporting director at VfL Wolfsburg.

Liverpool have been searching for a new candidate for the role since Ward stated his intention to step down last November, and Schmadtke will now be in charge of overseeing the club’s transfer plans, with his main focus expected to be on revamping the ageing midfield.

FSG president Mike Gordon said: “Firstly, I would like to welcome Jorg to Liverpool Football Club in the knowledge that he will bring a wealth of knowledge and experience into a role in which such qualities can only be beneficial both to him and us.

“Jorg will work with our football operations department as it continues to provide support for Jürgen Klopp, in keeping with our ongoing endeavour to keep growing and developing the club in all areas.

“At the same time as we welcome Jorg, we must also bid a fond farewell to Julian Ward, who has served us with unstinting diligence, fortitude and energy in a number of roles, the most recent one being sporting director.

“We wish Julian and his young family the very best for the future and thank him for everything he has done for Liverpool FC during the past 11 years.”