Chelsea sporting director Laurence Stewart departs amid leadership restructure

Chelsea co-sporting director Laurence Stewart is set to leave the club by mutual consent as part of a leadership restructure. Having spent nearly four years with the team, Stewart oversaw recruitment, scouting, and data operations alongside Paul Winstanley. His departure aligns with Chelsea's efforts to streamline its football operations, and there are no plans to appoint a direct replacement. Winstanley will continue with increased involvement from Sam Jewell and Joe Shields, as Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso is integrated into the decision-making process. Stewart's exit is unrelated to recent ownership changes and reflects an evolution in the club's approach.

• 9:25 AMYahoo Sports — Chelsea sporting director to leave club in leadership restructure