Valencia CF is pleased to announce the appointment of Ron Gourlay as the new Football CEO of the Club, a key strategic step towards returning to the elite of European football under the presidency of Kiat Lim.
Ron Gourlay brings over two decades of experience at the highest level in football, having held executive positions in prestigious clubs such as Manchester United, Chelsea FC, Reading FC, West Bromwich Albion, and Al-Ahli FC. His track record includes deep expertise in football operations, squad development, and strategic transformation. Notably, he appointed Carlos Corberán as head coach at West Bromwich Albion, a decision that led to a radical turnaround for the club and established a close professional relationship between them. He will now reunite with Corberán at Valencia CF.
This appointment underscores Valencia CF’s strategy to return the club to its historic position among the elite of European football, with dynamic leadership already in place: Lim’s forward-thinking presidency and extensive network, along with Gourlay’s decades of football management experience.
In this new phase, Gourlay will once again team up with Carlos Corberán, following a successful previous partnership. Their synergy, shared vision, and leadership will form a solid foundation to drive Valencia CF towards the growth and success that our fans deserve.
This decision is part of a long-term strategy led by President Kiat Lim, aimed at strengthening the club’s sports structure and implementing a modern, results-focused management model.
GOURLAY’S APPOINTMENT BRINGS WORLD-CLASS FOOTBALL LEADERSHIP TO VALENCIA CF
With over 25 years of experience at the highest levels, Gourlay has held executive positions at some of the most historic clubs in English football, including as Chief Executive of Chelsea FC, where he oversaw one of the club’s most successful periods. During his tenure, Chelsea won a Premier League title, two FA Cups, the UEFA Europa League, and their first UEFA Champions League in 2012. He later led strategic and operational transformations at Reading FC and West Bromwich Albion, bringing stability and long-term planning to both clubs. His impact extended beyond Europe during his time at Al-Ahli Saudi FC, guiding the club to victory in the AFC Champions League in just one season, demonstrating his adaptability and influence on a global scale.
Highly respected in the industry for his football acumen and leadership, Gourlay’s arrival bolsters President Kiat Lim’s vision to modernize and globalize Valencia CF without losing the club’s roots and identity.
“We are building the Valencia CF of the future, with a sustainable, ambitious foundation worthy of our proud history. With Ron Gourlay, we have a highly experienced football CEO who understands the complexities of modern football and the demands of a top-tier club to lead this project,” stated Kiat Lim, President of Valencia CF.
“It is a privilege to join Valencia CF at such a crucial moment. This club has passion, heritage, and a global fanbase deserving of success. I am delighted to reunite with Carlos. With Kiat at the helm, we share the ambition to return Valencia CF to where it belongs: competing for the highest goals, with a squad that reflects the club’s identity and future,” expressed Ron Gourlay, new Football CEO.
Looking ahead to the 2025/26 season, both squad planning and market opportunities are already being carefully assessed by Ron Gourlay and Valencia CF’s sports department.
The road ahead will require bold decisions and a clear focus on performance. The club has the necessary leadership to achieve it.
A new and exciting chapter begins for Valencia CF.
