Former Salford Red Devils captain Ryan Brierley will return to the club and become the chief executive of the newly launched phoenix side.
Brierley was part of a mass exodus of first-team players midway through the beleaguered club’s 2025 campaign, but has ended his playing career at Oldham to take on the role.
The 33-year-old has been appointed two days after former Red Devils player Mason Caton-Brown’s Phoenix Bid consortium was chosen to take charge of the club by the Rugby Football League.
Caton-Brown’s consortium was successful in applying for membership of the second-tier Championship from the RFL. Salford are scheduled to begin their campaign against Oldham on 16 January 2026.
Life-long Salford supporter Brierley thanked Oldham and highlighted the significance of the meeting between Greater Manchester rivals in the Championship curtain raiser.
Brierley said: “Salford is in my heart, and I believe saving its rugby league heritage is something that transcends rivalry.
“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.”
“It feels fitting, 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. 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 an overwhelming passion for Salford Rugby.”
