Former Bolton Wanderers boss Dougie Freedman is set to leave his position as Crystal Palace’s sporting director, as reports indicate he is poised to take on a new role with Saudi Arabian club Al-Diriyah. His departure from Palace was officially announced on March 17, 2025, following eight years of significant contributions to the club's ascent within the Premier League.
During his tenure, Freedman, who famously managed Bolton 101 times between October 2013 and October 2014, played a pivotal role in recruiting key players including Michael Olise, Eberechi Eze, Marc Guehi, Adam Wharton, and Dean Henderson. This recruitment has been influential in solidifying Crystal Palace's status as competing among the elite clubs.
Freedman's expected move to Al-Diriyah follows the club's promotion from the third division. Al-Diriyah, which recently underwent ownership changes to the Diriyah Company—controlled by the Public Investment Fund (PIF)—now has Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman as its chair. This shift is part of the broader efforts by Saudi Arabia to boost its domestic football scene.
Freedman's announcement expresses gratitude, stating, "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." His statement reflects not just his appreciation but also his pride in the progress made at Crystal Palace.
He emphasized the hard work put forth during his tenure, saying, "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 to its current position." Freedman acknowledged the team's potential, remarking, "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."
Freedman's connection to Crystal Palace runs deep; he had two spells as a player there and previously led the team to the top of the Championship. His rise to management came after replacing Owen Coyle at Bolton, where he nearly guided them to the play-offs but fell short on the final day by failing to secure victory over Blackpool.
After leaving Bolton, Freedman experienced another stint at Nottingham Forest, which did not yield the same success as his time at Crystal Palace. Yet, his return to the club saw him contribute decisively during another prosperous era.
Steve Parish, Crystal Palace's chairman, praised Freedman’s work, stating, "Dougie has been instrumental in everything we have done over the past eight years and had a huge impact before as manager and, of course, as a player. I have enjoyed working with him immensely and wish him every success for the future." Parish's sentiments underline the respect and admiration Freedman garnered at the club.
Freedman leaves Crystal Palace with confidence—the sporting department is well-structured and poised for continued success. He reflected on his relationship with the fans, expressing, "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... Crystal Palace is and will always remain in my heart."
Now, as Freedman transitions to Al-Diriyah, the focus will turn to how this movement fits within the larger narrative of Saudi Arabia's investment and improvements within the football domain. His appointment is emblematic of the rapid changes taking place within the Saudi football scene amid increasing investments and aspirations for success.
Freedman’s legacy is one of growth, talent acquisition, and fostering community support, qualities he hopes to carry forward as he embarks on this new chapter of his career.
