Valencia CF has confirmed the appointment of Ron Gourlay as the club’s new CEO of Football, part of a strategic restructure of its leadership team led by president Kiat Lim.
Gourlay, a Scottish football executive with over 25 years’ experience at top clubs including Manchester United, Chelsea and West Bromwich Albion, will lead the club’s sporting operations and long-term squad development.
During his time as CEO at Chelsea FC from 2009 to 2014, Gourlay oversaw one of the club’s most successful eras, with Premier League, FA Cup, UEFA Europa League and UEFA Champions League titles secured.
Gourlay’s arrival at Valencia reunites him with head coach Carlos Corberán, whom he previously appointed at West Brom. This collaboration is viewed as a key part of Valencia’s plan to return to the elite level of European football. The club says the appointment reflects its commitment to modernising its sporting and management structure.
Valencia CF President Kiat Lim emphasised the club’s focus on building a sustainable and ambitious future.
“We’re building Valencia CF for the future, on a foundation that’s sustainable, ambitious and worthy of our proud history. Ron Gourlay is a senior and highly experienced Sporting CEO who understands the complexities of modern football and the demands of a top-tier club to lead this project,” she said via press release.
Gourlay expressed his excitement about joining the Spanish club and the shared ambition to restore Valencia’s standing at the top level.
“It’s a privilege to join Valencia CF at such a pivotal time. This club has passion, heritage and a global fanbase that deserves success. I’m excited to reunite with Carlos once again,” he said via press release.
“With Kiat’s leadership at the helm, we share a strong ambition to restore Valencia CF to where it belongs — competing for top honours, with a squad that reflects the club’s identity and future.”
Looking ahead to the 2025/26 season, Gourlay and the recruitment team are already assessing squad planning and transfer market opportunities. The club says his leadership will be instrumental in driving a long-term vision for sustainable success both on and off the field.
The road ahead will require bold decisions and a relentless focus on performance. With this leadership team in place, Valencia CF is ready to deliver as a new chapter begins.
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