Former Salford Full-Back Ryan Brierley Takes on New Role as CEO
The rugby league world is abuzz with the news that former Salford Red Devils full-back Ryan Brierley is returning to the club in a new capacity. Brierley, a former captain and one of the players who departed the club midway through the 2025 campaign, has ended his playing career at Oldham to take on the role of CEO. This appointment comes just two days after fellow former Salford player Mason Caton-Brown's consortium secured membership of the second-tier Championship from the Rugby Football League.
The old Salford Red Devils club faced a turbulent year, marked by a mass player exodus, late wage payments, heavy defeats, and ultimately the loss of their Super League status for 2026. Amidst this turmoil, Brierley's return to the club is seen as a pivotal moment in the consortium's efforts to revive the team and restore its rugby league heritage.
In a statement, Oldham expressed their gratitude to Brierley, wishing him success in his new venture and acknowledging his contributions to the club. The 33-year-old Brierley emphasized the importance of safeguarding Salford's rugby league heritage, stating, 'Salford is in my heart, and I believe saving its rugby league heritage is something that transcends rivalry.'
The timing of this appointment is particularly significant. Coincidentally, Salford is set to begin the 2026 Championship season by hosting Oldham in mid-January, marking their first game back. Brierley sees this match as a symbol of rebirth and a celebration of rugby league, stating, '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.'
As the consortium embarks on this new chapter, the rugby league community eagerly anticipates the positive impact Brierley's leadership will have on the team's resurgence and the preservation of Salford's rich rugby league history.
