The English Football League (EFL) has issued a direct ultimatum to Reading owner Dai Yongge, demanding that he either provide adequate financial support for the club or make immediate arrangements to sell his majority shareholding. This stern directive comes after Yongge was fined an additional £50,000 for failing to meet financial deadlines related to staff wages, bringing his total fines to £80,000.
The EFL has expressed growing concern over Yongge’s apparent lack of financial commitment to the club, stating that it has become increasingly clear that he may no longer have the capacity or motivation to continue supporting Reading FC as he did following the change of ownership in 2017. This troubling situation has led to discontent among club staff, supporters, and the local community, culminating in a recent pitch invasion by fans that forced the abandonment of a League One match against Port Vale.
Despite the EFL’s plea for Yongge to either fund the club adequately or facilitate the acquisition of new ownership, the league has also reiterated its readiness to take further punitive action against the owner if necessary. The EFL’s decision to issue repeated fines to Yongge reflects the seriousness of the situation, as his failure to meet financial obligations has left staff members uncertain about the timely payment of their wages.
Although the pitch invasion at the recent match is regarded as regrettable by the EFL, the league has emphasised that it is a criminal offence to enter the field of play. However, the EFL has also expressed its understanding of the impact of the current situation on all those associated with the club and has pledged to engage with Reading supporters’ groups to seek a resolution.
In an effort to address the crisis at Reading FC, the EFL has signalled its intention to collaborate with Yongge and potential buyers to navigate through this challenging period. The league is set to meet with supporters’ groups to understand their perspectives and work towards a viable solution that will benefit all concerned parties.
As the situation at Reading FC unfolds, the EFL’s decisive stance is intended to safeguard the interests of the club, its loyal supporters, and the broader community. In the face of mounting financial instability, the urgent call for Yongge to provide financial support or pursue new ownership options underscores the critical need to secure the long-term stability and prosperity of the club.