Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett has expressed his concern about the “extremely worrying” situation facing the Red Devils.
The club which has been part of the Salford community for over 150 years, so far this season has faced ongoing financial difficulties.
In February, a consortium took over ownership, promising “a very bright and successful future” for the team.
However, the Red Devils currently sit at the bottom of the Super League and have been hit by off-field issues affecting on-field performance.
Concerns intensified last week when several key players left the club just days before their heavy 80–6 defeat to Hull FC – and these concerns have been shared by the Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett.
He said: “Salford Red Devils is a historic and valued part of this city’s sporting and cultural identity. For generations, the club has played a vital role in representing Salford on the national stage and supporting the growth of rugby league in our communities.
“As fans of rugby league and the place rugby has in the fabric of our city, we share the concerns of fans.”
The City Mayor added: “Recent reports about the increasing financial instability of the club are extremely worrying. They raise concerns about the welfare of staff and players.
“We fundamentally believe that no worker should be left unpaid, and no employee should be placed in a position of uncertainty about their future. This is a basic standard that any professional organisation must meet.”
Mayor Dennett also stated that the Council is not involved in the internal management or ownership decisions of the club but “has consistently acted to support the Red Devils where possible.”
This has included financial assistance, promoting sponsorships, facilitating community partnerships, and, in 2024, acquiring the Salford Community Stadium to provide a long-term home for elite rugby in the city.
He continued: “We have worked constructively with the club across many years to help it navigate challenging periods and safeguard its future in Salford.
“We remain committed to the long-term sustainability of professional rugby league in this city. That includes continuing to work with relevant stakeholders – including the current and any prospective owners – where it is appropriate to do so.”
The Salford Mayor’s comments follow a statement from the club’s owners last night (Monday 11 August), where assured fans the Red Devils “will not close” despite tackling over £3 million in inherited debt and the collapse of a pledged £1.8 million investment.
Statement from the Club owners.
— Salford Red Devils 👹 (@SalfordDevils) August 11, 2025
The statement from the club yesterday evening said: “We understand the frustration many fans feel. But we want to be clear: Salford Red Devils will not close.
“We have consistently met wage obligations under difficult conditions and continue to tackle over £3million in inherited debt.
“Your patience and support are deeply appreciated as we work to return SRD to its rightful position in the sport.”
The owners added: “This marks a turning point and underscores the consortium’s long-term commitment to the Red Devils.
“Salford’s proud legacy remains one of its greatest strengths. As recent uncertainty subsides, the club is confident it will attract fresh talent inspired to contribute to the rebuilding of a storied institution.
“We are committed to creating an environment where players, staff, and supporters can thrive.”
And stated that the club is in the process of securing bridge funding “that restores immediate financial stability and lays the foundation for a sustainable future”.
With the club owners focus still remaining on “long-term solvency and stability.”
More of the statement shared by the owners of Salford Red Devils can be found here.
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