Southampton break silence as first exit is confirmed after Middlesbrough spygate

Statement released: first Southampton exit confirmed after Middlesbrough spygate fallout

The first departure from Southampton following the Middlesbrough spygate scandal has now been confirmed.

After Southampton were caught up in the controversy surrounding Middlesbrough, attention has quickly turned to what comes next at St Mary’s. Middlesbrough went on to reach the play-off final but were beaten by Hull City, meaning both clubs will be back in the Championship next season.

Now, Southampton have confirmed their first departure in the aftermath of the scandal.

According to a breaking update from Sky Sports, Southampton’s head of UK scouting, Ben Chorley, has announced he will be leaving the club.

With Southampton previously looking well placed for a return to the Premier League before the controversy unfolded, frustration is likely to be growing among staff and supporters alike. Questions also remain over the future of manager Tonda Eckert following his reported involvement.

At this stage, it remains unclear whether Chorley’s exit is connected to the spygate fallout or whether the decision had already been planned.

In a statement shared on LinkedIn, Chorley confirmed he will depart Southampton and Sport Republic at the end of June, describing it as the “right time” to move on after working across the multi-club model and gaining valuable experience in recruitment and football operations.

His departure could be the first of several changes at St Mary’s as Southampton prepare for what is shaping up to be a huge summer in the Championship.