Hull City are set to hold discussions with Reading manager Ruben Selles about the vacant managerial position at the MKM Stadium, after Reading granted permission for them to speak to their boss.
Selles has emerged as the preferred candidate of Tigers owner Acun Ilicali, and a deal could be finalised by the end of the week.
Selles’ Impact on Reading
The 41-year-old Spaniard has impressed since joining Reading from Southampton last year. Despite significant off-the-field challenges, including points deductions, Selles led the Royals to safety last season, finishing 17th in League One after being 10 points adrift at one stage. This term, he has guided the club to sixth place, positioning them as play-off contenders despite ongoing turmoil.
Hull City’s Managerial Hunt
Hull City’s pursuit of Selles comes after a poor start to the Championship season. The Tigers have failed to win in their last 10 league matches and have only three victories from their 18 games so far. Interim head coach Andy Dawson is managing the team ahead of Saturday’s home clash with Blackburn Rovers, but a permanent appointment is urgently needed to stabilise the club.
Selles leads a shortlist of candidates linked with the job, including former Sheffield United boss Slavisa Jokanovic, Chris Hughton, Mark Robins, Alex Neil, and Steven Schumacher. However, Selles’ achievements under challenging conditions at Reading have made him the standout choice for Ilicali.
Who Is Rubén Sellés?
Rubén Sellés boasts a wealth of coaching experience across Europe, having worked in Greece, Russia, Azerbaijan, Denmark, Spain, and England. He began his career in coaching at just 16 and gained expertise in roles ranging from fitness coaching to data analysis, eventually taking up key managerial and assistant positions. A UEFA Pro Licence holder with a Master’s in Sports & Physiology, Sellés combines technical knowledge with a strong tactical approach.
In 2022, he joined Southampton in the Premier League as an assistant and later assumed interim and head coaching roles, guiding the team through relegation challenges. In July 2023, he took over at Reading, quickly securing an emphatic EFL Cup victory. His innovative methods and analytical mindset make him a promising figure in football management, capable of navigating high-pressure environments.
Writer’s View
Ruben Selles’ potential appointment signals a bold move by Hull City to revitalise their campaign. His proven ability to navigate adversity at Reading and elevate a struggling side makes him a compelling choice. However, turning Hull’s season around in the highly competitive Championship will require not just tactical expertise but also swift squad improvements to regain momentum.
