Reading manager Ruben Selles believes that the challenges faced by the club have contributed to his growth as a coach. The Royals incurred a six-point deduction this season due to financial breaches and embarked on negotiations with a potential buyer in March, following owner Dai Yongge’s commitment to a letter of intent.
Expressing optimism about the team’s trajectory, Selles remarked to BBC Radio Berkshire, “I have a positive feeling about the year. We have a team that is focused on the future and has weathered various challenges. I feel that I’ve evolved as a coach since the beginning.”
With one League One fixture remaining, Reading sits comfortably in 17th place, six points clear of relegation, after enduring their first relegation to England’s third tier in 21 years last season. Despite flirtations with further decline, Selles successfully navigated his team to safety amidst significant obstacles.
The ongoing negotiations between owner Dai Yongge and a potential buyer offer hope to fans for a brighter future. However, Selles acknowledges the lingering uncertainty surrounding the club’s fate, cautioning against premature expectations of promotion next season given the current circumstances.
“We need stability and resolution before setting lofty goals,” Selles emphasized. “It’s crucial for the new owners to settle in, and the longer the process takes, the less prepared we’ll be for the upcoming season.”
Selles is eager for the ownership transition to occur promptly, recognizing the importance of allowing sufficient time for preparation ahead of the preseason and the new campaign.
Photos by Paul King
