After years of turmoil, Reading finally have stability – and with it, the potential to cause real damage in League One.
A new era under fresh ownership has brought relief, optimism, and a sense that the Royals could be surprise contenders this season.
May 2025 marked the end of one of the most punishing periods in Reading’s history. Under the catastrophic ownership of Dai Yongge, the club endured points deductions, financial chaos, and constant uncertainty. But with Rob Couhig and Todd Trosclair of Redwood Holdings now at the helm, there is light at the end of the tunnel – and perhaps even a promotion push on the horizon.
Fans who once feared liquidation can now look forward to a season focused on football. The emotional outpouring after the sale was raw and genuine, because the battle to get there had been so draining. Yet that very battle may now serve as a launchpad for something special. Reading, long battered and bruised, may just be the dark – or black – horses of League One.
New Ownership Has Brought Stability and Vision
Rob Couhig is no stranger to turning clubs around. His work at Wycombe Wanderers earned widespread admiration, and his partnership with Todd Trosclair promises a similarly steadying hand at Reading. Redwood Holdings Limited doesn’t just bring money; it brings a clear plan rooted in sustainability and sound management – a welcome contrast to Dai Yongge’s erratic and distant tenure.
Under Couhig, there’s already a shift in tone. No more winding-up petitions or last-minute salary scrambles. Instead, there are sensible free transfers – like the recent arrival of Paudie O’Connor – and renewed deals for players like Andy Yiadom, Jeriel Dorsett, and Kelvin Ehibatiomhan. It might not be flashy, but it’s smart and measured, and that’s exactly what Reading need.
The “Reading Way” Has Returned
Perhaps the most encouraging aspect of this new chapter is a return to core identity. The club’s new hierarchy has spoken openly about reviving the “Reading Way” – a philosophy built on developing youth, community engagement, and long-term planning.
This isn’t just empty rhetoric. The Reading FC Community Trust continues to thrive, and there’s real talk of properly rebuilding the women’s team after last year’s painful withdrawal from the Championship. Internally, there’s investment in the academy, with youngsters like John Clarke and John Ryan signing new deals. A club once falling apart now feels united from top to bottom – and that cohesion can translate into results.
A Reinvigorated Fanbase Can Be a Weapon
No set of supporters in League One has endured more over the last two years. Reading fans were forced to become part-time financial analysts, ownership investigators, and legal campaigners just to keep their club alive. Now, with the nightmare over, their bond with the club is stronger than ever.
The relief has been tangible. At the final game of last season, chants of “We’ve got our Reading back!” echoed across the Select Car Leasing Stadium. There is now trust in the boardroom and belief in the pitch – and that passion could become a real weapon. With sell-outs likely and a powerful sense of purpose, Reading’s home advantage might finally matter again.
The Squad is Young, Hungry – and Growing
Despite everything, Reading were not among League One’s weakest sides last season. They showed fight and potential, and under better conditions, the squad has serious upside. Players like Michael Craig, Abraham Kanu, and Basil Tuma are developing, while smart signings like goalkeeper Jack Stevens add League One experience.
The arrival of Paudie O’Connor – a seasoned, vocal leader who captained Lincoln City – is a real signal of intent. Add to that the return of injured players, a renewed focus on training, and a manager finally able to operate without chaos above him, and the squad’s ceiling looks far higher than many outside Berkshire might think.
Conclusion: This Could Be Reading’s Year To Surprise
The path back to stability has been torturous, but now that it’s here, Reading are perfectly positioned to climb. While bigger clubs like Birmingham City, Huddersfield Town and Wrexham will dominate the headlines, the Royals are quietly building something solid, sustainable – and potentially successful.
They may not be favourites, but that’s precisely the point. There’s no pressure, only opportunity. If the momentum of survival can be channelled into performance, and if the “Reading Way” truly takes root once more, then don’t be surprised if Couhig’s side gatecrash the promotion party.
This time, the rebuild is on their own terms – and that makes Reading the ultimate black horses of League One 2025/26.
