Benfica’s Multi-Club Initiative Sees FSG’s Move for Technical Director
Liverpool FC’s owners, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), have recently announced their intention to expand their football portfolio beyond the Premier League club. This move comes as part of a larger initiative to enhance the organization and maintain competitiveness in the ever-changing football landscape. One of the key figures leading this endeavor is Michael Edwards, who has returned to FSG as the CEO of Football.
Edwards, who played a pivotal role in Liverpool’s recent success, will now oversee operations at both Liverpool and the newly acquired club. His main responsibility will be to find FSG a second club to purchase and manage. This strategic decision reflects FSG’s commitment to investment and expansion in order to remain competitive.
To aid in the acquisition process, FSG is reportedly targeting Pedro Marques, the technical director of Benfica. Marques, who has a wealth of experience in various roles within the football industry, would be employed directly by FSG, not Liverpool. His expertise would prove invaluable in both the search for a new club and its subsequent management.
Marques’ previous roles include working as a youth coach at Sporting CP and a first-team performance analyst at Manchester City. Since 2018, he has been an integral part of Benfica’s technical staff. The paths of Marques and Liverpool crossed when the club signed Darwin Nunez in 2022, leading FSG to recognize his potential contribution to their multi-club initiative.
The decision to pursue multi-club ownership is not without controversy. While some argue that it allows for greater resources and opportunities for player development, others express concern about conflicts of interest and the dilution of focus on individual clubs. However, FSG believes that this change in strategy is essential for long-term success.
In addition to the search for a technical director, FSG is also in the process of making Liverpool-centric appointments. Richard Hughes, who recently departed from Bournemouth, is expected to become the next sporting director for Liverpool. This move further demonstrates FSG’s commitment to strengthening the club from top to bottom.
As FSG expands its football portfolio, fans and critics alike await the outcomes of these strategic moves. The acquisition of a second club and the addition of key personnel are seen as crucial steps in maintaining Liverpool’s success and solidifying FSG’s position as a prominent force in the football world. With Michael Edwards leading the way and the potential inclusion of Pedro Marques, FSG is positioning itself for continued growth and competitiveness in the ever-evolving landscape of the sport.