Key Points
- Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes defended the club’s summer transfer business amid a difficult title defence.
- Hughes backed head coach Arne Slot, emphasising support without interference to allow performances to improve.
- He highlighted that all signings are top players selected collectively, with a “key” moment in the process ensuring quality.
- Liverpool sit sixth in the Premier League, 14 points behind leaders Arsenal, after a winless run earlier in 2026.
Liverpool (Liverpool Standard) February 5, 2026 – Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes has publicly defended the club’s transfer strategy and head coach Arne Slot during a challenging Premier League title defence.
The reigning champions currently languish in sixth place, 14 points adrift of leaders Arsenal, following a five-match winless streak in the league at the start of 2026 prior to a recent victory over Newcastle.
What has Richard Hughes said about Liverpool’s transfers?
Speaking to The Reds Roundtable, Hughes expressed confidence in the summer signings, stating they were brought in for very good reasons as top players.
“All these players are here for a very good reason, they are top players. Everybody has played their part in getting them to the club and we were all very happy with what we did in the summer,” Hughes remarked, according to ESPN reporting.
As reported by James Pearce of This Is Anfield, Hughes rarely speaks publicly but explained the transfer process requires a “key” moment to ensure signings fit perfectly.
How does Hughes support Arne Slot?
Hughes stressed his approach to working with Slot involves providing space rather than pressure, allowing the Dutch coach to find his feet.
“You want to be there to support them and not suffocate them with it, let them find their own feet,” he said, underscoring a collective effort to help players deliver their best form, as covered by beIN Sports.
What is the “key” moment in Liverpool’s process?
Hughes detailed that every signing undergoes rigorous evaluation, with absolute conviction in their quality before commitment, ensuring performances follow on the pitch, per This Is Anfield.
What challenges face Liverpool next?
Earlier losses to Crystal Palace, Manchester United and Brentford highlighted struggles, but Hughes remains optimistic that the right players will translate into results.
The club aims to rally in Slot’s second season at Anfield, with Hughes affirming no proprietary ownership over decisions—success belongs to the team effort.
