Valencia CF has appointed Ron Gourlay as the club’s new CEO of Football, marking a key milestone in its long-term strategy to rejoin Europe’s football elite under the leadership of President Kiat Lim.
Gourlay, a veteran football executive with more than 25 years of experience, brings with him a proven track record of success at top clubs including Manchester United, Chelsea FC, Reading FC, West Bromwich Albion, and Al-Ahli Saudi FC. His appointment is expected to bring world-class leadership and operational expertise to Valencia CF.
Notably, Gourlay’s football acumen includes strategic squad development, club restructuring, and high-level football operations. At Chelsea, he served as Chief Executive during one of the club’s most successful eras, overseeing major titles including the Premier League, FA Cup, UEFA Europa League, and the club’s first UEFA Champions League win in 2012.
In addition to his achievements in English football, Gourlay helped lead Al-Ahli Saudi FC to an AFC Champions League title within a single season, highlighting his global impact on the sport.
A key element of this appointment is Gourlay’s reunion with head coach Carlos Corberán, whom he previously hired at West Bromwich Albion. That decision sparked a dramatic turnaround in the club’s performance, and the pair will now look to replicate that success in La Liga.
A Strategic Vision for Growth
President Kiat Lim emphasized that this leadership move supports the club’s long-term goal of sustainable growth and top-level competition.
“We are building Valencia CF for the future, with a foundation that is sustainable, ambitious, and worthy of our proud history,” said Lim. “In Ron Gourlay, we have a senior and very experienced Sporting CEO who understands the complexities of modern football and the demands of a top-tier club to lead the project.”
Gourlay echoed the sentiment, expressing his enthusiasm for the challenge ahead.
“It’s a privilege to join Valencia CF at such a pivotal time,” said Gourlay. “This club has passion, heritage, and a global fanbase that deserves success. I’m thrilled to reunite with Carlos again. With Kiat’s leadership at the helm, we have a shared ambition to restore Valencia to where it belongs – competing for top honours, with a squad that reflects the club’s identity and future.”
Planning for the 2025/26 Season
With the 2025/26 campaign on the horizon, Gourlay and Valencia’s recruitment team have already begun work on squad planning and exploring key market opportunities.
Club officials emphasized that the path forward will require bold decision-making and a sharp focus on performance—but with Gourlay and Corberán working in tandem, Valencia CF now has the leadership in place to navigate that path with purpose.
A new chapter has begun at Mestalla—one driven by ambition, experience, and belief.
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