Reading Football Club’s manager Ruben Selles and head of football operations Mark Bowen have made a commendable decision to forgo their wages until all club staff members receive their full November pay. This decision stems from the club’s recent prioritisation of paying its players, which left staff members with only 50% of their monthly wage in order to avoid another points deduction.
Bowen elaborated on the situation, stating, “There was insufficient funding this month to fully pay the wages. The chief executive prioritised paying the players to prevent another points deduction, resulting in a partial payment to the rest of the staff. In solidarity, Ruben and I have chosen to forfeit our entire wages until the staff are paid in full. We have received assurance that the necessary funds will be available, and all dues will be settled by early next week.”
In addition to financial challenges, Reading FC has encountered fan protests due to the club’s precarious state. During the recent FA Cup match against Eastleigh, fans disrupted the game by throwing tennis balls and fake money onto the pitch, conveying their frustration with the club’s owner, Dai Yongge. This protest occurred during the team’s 2-1 defeat, exacerbating the club’s difficulties this season.
Furthermore, the team has faced points deductions, amounting to four points this season and a total of 16 points over the last three seasons. Coupled with unpaid wages and internal unrest, the former Premier League side is at risk of relegation to League Two.
The fans’ protest at the FA Cup match has placed the spotlight on Yongge, who is currently in the process of selling the club and has engaged in discussions with Luxembourg-based hedge funders Genevra Associates. Despite these developments, the club and its representatives have not provided any official comments.
The struggles faced by Reading FC serve as a poignant reminder of the challenges encountered by numerous football clubs, particularly those in lower divisions. As fans and stakeholders closely monitor the situation, there is optimism that a resolution can be reached to safeguard the well-being of the club, its staff, and its devoted supporters.
In conclusion, the actions taken by Selles and Bowen to support the club’s staff reflect their unwavering dedication to the team and its members. The fervour and commitment displayed by fans, while expressed through protests, underscore the profound connection between the club and its community. It is imperative for all parties involved to collaborate towards a sustainable and positive resolution, and we will continue to monitor developments as they unfold.