Head of UK Scouting Chorley departs Sport Republic

He was initially Sporting Director at Valenciennes for two years before becoming the group’s Head of UK Scouting in August 2025. Chorley, a former professional footballer who captained Portsmouth, was also Chief Scout and Director of Football during three years with Swindon Town from 2018 to 2021.

“I’ll be leaving Southampton and Sport Republic at the end of June,” said Chorley, who is a TGG Member. “It’s the right time.

“Working within a multi-club model as Sporting Director in Europe, and leading the UK side at Southampton, has been a privilege.

“The experiences – promotions and relegations across the clubs, being involved in hundreds of transfer transactions, and learning from high-level leaders in data, performance, finance, and process – have been invaluable.”

Writing on LinkedIn, Chorley paid special tribute to Sport Republic co-founders Rasmus Ankersen and Henrik Kraft, as well as Director of Football Operations Mark Bitcon and his scouting team.

“I’m usually one for short and sweet, but there are many people who deserve a thank you after the last three-and-a-half years. Rasmus Ankersen – always three steps ahead. Your negotiation, innovation, and vision are like nothing I’ve seen.

“Henrik Kraft – thank you for the opportunity and your encouragement. Mark Bitcon – what a guy. You’ve changed my outlook on elite performance and emotional control.

“Alyson C Pendlebury – the best PA. You are incredible. René Saggiadi and Roberto Gagliardi – thank you for welcoming me and integrating me into the model.

“Fellow Sporting Directors Jason Wilcox, Ivan Mance, and Johannes Spors – I’ve taken something from each of you. Sam Stanton – my travelling companion through thousands of miles and support through 6am to 1am transfer window days.

“The UK team – Craig Bannister, Wade Elliott, and Ged Murphy – what a rewarding season. It’s been a pleasure to manage you. I only wish we’d secured the Premier League promotion that was deserved.

“A big good luck to my friend and assistant coach at SFC, Ben Garner – see you soon. Now it’s time to enjoy a couple of weeks with family and see what the game brings in 2026/27.”