Ryan Brierley will return to Salford Red Devils in 2026, after becoming the club’s new CEO.
The news comes at the same time his release from Championship side Oldham was confirmed, as he departs the Roughyeds only a few months into a two and a half year contract.
Brierley spent four seasons at the club as a player, featuring 95 times, but made an emotional exit earlier this year due to the club’s struggling financial difficulties.
Whilst it is not yet confirmed, the 33-year-old looks to have hung up the boots, with his new role of CEO taking up his full focus.
The statement by the consortium led by Mason Caton-Brown confirming his position, reads in full:
“The Phoenix Bid consortium is proud to announce the appointment of Ryan Brierley as its Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately.”
“Brierley, a lifelong Salford supporter and former club captain, steps into the role to lead the next phase of rebuilding professional rugby league in the city following the consortium’s successful bid for the Rugby Football League (RFL) license.”
“In his first statement as CEO, Brierley expressed both gratitude and humility:”
“I want to sincerely thank everyone at Oldham, the management, the staff, the players, and especially the fans. I know this might come as a surprise, and I’m deeply sorry to be leaving so soon, but this is something I felt I had to do. Salford is in my heart, and I believe saving its rugby league heritage is something that transcends rivalry. I hope Oldham’s incredible supporters understand that this is about protecting something we all care deeply about, and what a great club they belong to,” commented Ryan Brierley, CEO of the Phoenix Bid.”
“Brierley also noted the significance of the fixture list, which sees Salford’s first game back against Oldham early next year.”
“It feels fitting,” he added. “That match will be about rebirth, it will be a celebration of rugby league itself. Two historic clubs, built by working people, standing shoulder to shoulder for the good of the game.”
“The Phoenix Bid consortium confirmed that planning for the 2026 season is now underway, with Brierley leading a focused team to deliver a sustainable, community-first future for Salford rugby league.”
“The hard work starts now,” Brierley said. “This is for the fans, and we won’t let them down. It’s an honour to now lead this consortium and to help guide Salford into a new era.”
“I’m asking everyone for patience and support as we rebuild together one step at a time, united for the club and our city.”
“I am looking forward to working closely with Mason Caton-Brown who has spearheaded the bid in the last few weeks, backed by a superb team that has overwhelming passion for Salford Rugby”.
