Salford Red Devils to field a full-strength squad this weekend after takeover approved by the RFL

Salford Red Devils will be able to field a full-strength squad this weekend against Leeds Rhinos after the takeover has been approved by the RFL.

The initial takeover was announced on February 7, with a consortium led by businessman Dario Berta, CEO of Matanel, an investment bank that specialises in real estate investment, completing a full 100% purchase of the club which has been approved by the CBS.

However, with the finalisation of the deal was yet to be confirmed, with the Red Devils being ordered to field a restricted line up under the sustainability cap.

The club played the fixtured against Midlands Hurricanes in the Challenge Cup and were hoping that the deal would be finalised before the opening Super League weekend.

Although this wasn’t to be, with the Red Devils still restricted against St Helens it saw them field a side full of reserve talent and losing 82-0 – the largest winning margin in Super League history. 

The RFL has launched a compliance investigation into Salford’s decision to field a reserve squad against Saints.

The investigation could result in Salford being charged with a breach of operational rules, which if proven would expose the club to a range of potential sanctions.

Salford’s decision to use a reserve squad drew criticism from rivals, including Warrington head coach Sam Burgess, that it had compromised the integrity of the competition.

However, with the takeover now confirmed Paul Rowley will be able to choose from a wide selection of first team players, as they will face Leeds Rhinos at home.

A spokesperson from the club said: “Salford Red Devils is pleased to announce that the takeover of the club has been formally approved by RFL Commercial, following the completion of the final requirements.

“As such, the club will be in a position to field a full-strength squad on Saturday for the Salford Red Devil’s opening home fixture against Leeds Rhinos.”

𝗕𝗔𝗖𝗞 𝗜𝗡 𝗕𝗨𝗦𝗜𝗡𝗘𝗦𝗦! 😎 pic.twitter.com/jP9nkjm8qN

— Salford Red Devils 👹 (@SalfordDevils) February 20, 2025

The club will be able to now direct their focus back to the on-field progress, and fans will be able to feel a sense of relief now the takeover has been officially confirmed.

And the takeover celebrations will be able to enjoy the game with special guests the Happy Mondays, who will be on the pitch performing to the home Salford crowd this Saturday 22 February.

Fans will be able to watch the full-strength Red Devils side this weekend – with tickets available here.