Sporting director Dougie Freedman to leave Crystal Palace and take up role in Saudi Arabia

Crystal Palace have confirmed that sporting director Dougie Freedman will leave the club and is set to take up a role overseas.

The South London Press understands that the 50-year-old is set to accept a position in Saudi Arabia.

It has been reported that the former Nottingham Forest and Bolton boss is set to join Al-Diriyah, who play in the Saudi second tier and are owned by the Public Investment Fund.

Former striker Freedman, who netted 88 times in 320 games as a player for the Eagles, returned to Palace in 2017 as sporting director and has been courted by Manchester United and Newcastle during his time at Selhurst Park.

Freedman has signed Championship gems Michael Olise, Adam Wharton and Eberechi Eze. He has also signed the likes of Marc Guehi,  Joachim Andersen, Conor Gallagher, Dean Henderson and Daniel Munoz in recent years.

Former sporting director Iain Moody, who has worked closely with Palace’s recruitment operation on a consultancy basis in recent years, will undertake a more prominent position.

Chairman Steve Parish said: “Dougie has been instrumental in everything we have done over the past eight years and indeed had a huge impact before that as manager and, of course, as a player. 

“I have enjoyed working with him immensely and wish him every success for the future. 

“Dougie leaves behind an excellent and well-structured sporting department that I’m sure will continue to go from strength to strength.”

Freedman said: “I would like to extend my thanks to Steve Parish, the other owners and to all the staff, managers and players who have been at the club during my time here. 

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed learning from and working alongside you all.

“It’s been an honour to represent the club and I am incredibly proud of the work that’s been done, with the chairman’s support, in growing the football club into its current position.

“To be leaving the club with a squad full of exciting talent led by an excellent manager, I truly believe the foundations are in place to be built upon.

“Finally, a huge thank you to all the fans for your continued support and passion – especially with how you’ve helped new signings and academy products settle into life at Selhurst Park by supporting and getting behind the team.

“Crystal Palace is and will always remain in my heart, and I will continue to look for results and follow the club’s progress closely.”

PICTURE: ALAMY