Salford Red Devils: From Rebirth to Rugby League Glory in 2026

Ryan Brierley, former captain of Salford Red Devils, has transitioned into the role of chief executive, taking the reins during a challenging period for the club. His appointment comes after a period of significant player departures, stemming from financial difficulties experienced in 2025 and a disappointing season overall.

Brierley’s decision to step away from playing and assume the executive position was a swift one.”It’s naturally the next step of my career,” he stated in an interview with BBC North West Tonight. “My retirement came a little sooner than expected but when an prospect like this comes, I didn’t want to turn it down.” He emphasized his deep connection to the club and the city, stating, “A Salford boy who supports and wants to help the club, when you get offered a chance to help and stay at Salford, you certainly don’t say no.”

Salford is set to return to the Championship, and their first match will be against Oldham, the club Brierley briefly played for after leaving Salford in 2025.

However, Brierley is realistic about the challenges ahead, acknowledging the club’s precarious financial position. he stresses the importance of managing expectations.”What I want to make the fans understand is that it won’t always be nice, either. people always want honesty until they don’t. But for us it’s about managing expectations,” he explained. He’s been encouraged by the pragmatic understanding shown by the fanbase, allowing for open and direct communication about the difficulties facing the club.