FSG’s ‘imminent’ second club plans take shape with Benfica signing – Liverpool FC

Liverpool’s bosses are eyeing a multi-club model and their ambitions to do so have accelerated with the additions of both Julian Ward and Benfica’s technical director.

FSG’s quest to expand their football portfolio has become abundantly clear after Michael Edwards was appointed as their Director of Football.

The former Liverpool head of transfers explained that “one of the biggest factors” in his decision to take the job was “the commitment to acquire and oversee an additional club”.

Edwards believes the expansion is “necessary” and the team that has helped is slowly coming together following the news that FSG have managed to lure Benfica technical director Pedro Marques to their project.

When the news of Ward’s appointment as FSG’s technical director was announced on Friday, it was also revealed that Marques would take on the role of director of football development.

Some interesting points about Pedro Marques:
-studied at undergraduate level in ?? & ??
-used to scout players himself when academy coach at Sporting CP
-our recruiting from South America will finally start to be a serious focus
-loves player analysis, data geek, also held the position of… pic.twitter.com/qcE9zjuGuA

— Moby (@Mobyhaque1) May 10, 2024

Marques will report to Ward and, according to Athletic, will help oversee “the development of youth players and their transition to first-team football.”

It’s a description that sounds a lot like Vitor Matos’ role as the current elite development coach, but you feel that Marques, who has extensive experience in player development, will play overwatch.

How and if Matos is replaced outright will become clearer once Arne Slot’s coaching staff is confirmed this summer.

Moreover, the TelegraphChris Bascombe reiterates that Marques’ recruitment is part of FSG’s “plans” to buy a “sister” football club, with a move for a European side believed to be “imminent”.

With Edwards, Ward, Marques and Richard Hughes in place, the future of FSG and Liverpool is starting to take shape and it promises to be a big summer ahead.