The Dragons have officially announced the return of Neil McIlroy to the club as Sporting Director.

The former manager of ASM Clermont, who had seized the opportunity to return to the Top 14 by joining MHR at the end of last season, is back in the staff a few weeks before the start of the new Super League season.

McIlroy, 56, is a former Scottish Rugby Union player. He then joined the ASM Clermont staff as video analyst before having been appointed Team Manager. He left the Top 14 club in 2021 after nineteen successful years.

He will oversee the sports sector, training from U16 to the reserve team, the training center, and the Campus. He will also ensure the link between the sports and administrative aspects.

Bernard Guasch, President of the Catalans Dragons
We had an exceptional 2023 season, and Neil is no stranger to what we achieved. We knew his value when we recruited him, and he brought his experience and expertise of the professionalism. When we learned about his situation at Montpellier, we let him know that his position was still available to resume his duties where he left them. We want to let him continues his work in structuring the club, and we are very happy to welcome him back to the Dragons.

Neil McIlroy, Sporting Director of the Catalans Dragons
After a challenging period and a short stint at Montpellier, I was flattered that the Dragons contacted me to discuss the possibility of returning to the club. I had opportunities abroad, but after discussions with Steve McNamara and Bernard Guasch, I am delighted to commit to the Dragons in a three-year project. Upon my return, the welcome from players, rugby and administrative staffs warmed my heart and reminded me of the values of this sport and this club. The transition should be relatively simple, and I will quickly get back into the groove, as if I had never left. Even with some changes in the staff and squad, the club's ambitions remain intact, and I am very happy to contribute to the growth and future success of the club.