Manchester United had Dougie Freedman in their list of potential sporting directors to replace Dan Ashworth
Comments
Sport
Dougie Freedman
Dougie Freedman is leaving Crystal Palace(Image: PA)
Former Manchester United sporting director target Dougie Freedman has left Crystal Palace to take up a surprise new role.
Freedman had emerged as the front-runner to become Dan Ashworth's successor at United in December. The Reds confirmed the departure of Ashworth after he had only been in his role for a few months.
After being targeted by United and Newcastle, Freedman is joining a new challenge in Saudi Arabia. The Scot has taken up a role at Al Diriyah, who will play in the second division of Saudi Arabia football next season.
Palace chairman Steve Parish claimed the 50-year-old had been 'instrumental' in what he has done for the club over the years. Freedman said: "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.
"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."
talkSPORT meanwhile, report that Freedman would be the head of sport for Diriyah Company and possess an expansive role across multiple sports. The Saudi club are owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), who also own Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr, Al-Ittihad, Al-Ahli and Al Hilal.
Freedman had been Palace's sporting director since 2017, having also represented them as a player over two spells.