Ben Chorley, the head of UK scouting, has announced his departure from Southampton FC and Sport Republic. He indicated that this summer marks “the right time” for him to leave the organization.
Chorley’s Background
Chorley, a former Football League defender, previously served as the director of football for Valenciennes before joining the Saints. His tenure at Valenciennes lasted over two years.
In August 2025, he took on the role of head of UK scouting, working closely with technical director Johannes Spors and head of recruitment Sam Stanton. His journey in this multi-club model has been an enriching experience, filled with valuable lessons.
Reflecting on His Time
In a LinkedIn post, Chorley expressed his gratitude to several individuals who influenced his career at Southampton and Sport Republic. He stated, “Working as Sporting Director in Europe and leading the UK side has been a privilege.” Throughout his time, he was involved in various transitions involving promotions and relegations, as well as hundreds of transfer dealings.
Chorley acknowledged key figures who supported him, including:
- Rasmus Ankersen: Renowned for his innovative vision and negotiation skills.
- Henrik Kraft: Thanked for providing opportunities and encouragement.
- Mark Bitcon: Commended for changing his perspective on elite performance.
- Alyson C Pendlebury: Recognized as an exceptional personal assistant.
- René Saggiadi and Roberto Gagliardi: Thanked for their welcoming attitude and integration support.
Team Acknowledgments
Chorley expressed appreciation for his fellow sporting directors, including:
- Jason Wilcox
- Ivan Mance
- Johannes Spors
He also highlighted the contributions of his UK team members: Craig Bannister, Wade Elliott, and Ged Murphy, reflecting on a rewarding season. Chorley wished them the best as he looked forward to future endeavors.
Next Steps
As his departure approaches, Chorley plans to take a short break with his family. He expressed excitement about what opportunities await in the 2026/27 season.
