Reading boss Noel Hunt is under increasing pressure after a poor start to the season, with Gillingham’s unbeaten manager Gareth Ainsworth emerging as a potential replacement, according to Football League World.
The Royals have taken just five points from their opening seven League One fixtures, raising questions about Hunt’s long-term future under the club’s new ownership.
Ainsworth on Reading’s Radar
According to reports, Ainsworth has been identified as a leading candidate should Reading decide to make a change. The 51-year-old returned to management with Gillingham in March and has enjoyed a remarkable start to the current campaign. His side are unbeaten in eight games, collecting 18 points and sitting second in League Two.
Ainsworth is no stranger to League One, having previously led Wycombe Wanderers to the Championship in 2020 after a long and successful spell at Adams Park. His experience, coupled with his strong start at Gillingham, has put him in the frame to take over if Reading’s hierarchy lose patience with Hunt.
Connection to the Royals
One factor potentially working in Ainsworth’s favour is his relationship with Reading chief executive Joe Jacobson. The pair worked together at Wycombe, where Jacobson was a key player during Ainsworth’s tenure. Their successful spell included promotion and survival at Championship level, and Jacobson would likely provide a strong endorsement for his former manager.
Reading’s ownership, who took charge last year, have already shown a willingness to make bold decisions. Despite Hunt nearly reaching the play-offs last season, their appetite for change appears strong as they look to accelerate the club’s recovery from recent turmoil.
Fresh Squad, Familiar Issues
The Royals recruited heavily in the summer transfer window, adding 12 players including Paddy Lane, Paudie O’Connor and Kamari Doyle. Senior figures such as Matt Ritchie, Derrick Williams and Jack Marriott were also brought in to add experience. Despite the overhaul, results have not matched expectations, increasing scrutiny on Hunt’s position.
Hunt, 42, took over as head coach on a permanent basis in 2024 after previously serving in a caretaker role. This is his first full campaign in charge, but he now faces mounting pressure to turn results around quickly.
Writer’s View
Reading’s owners are eager to re-establish the club as a force in League One, and Hunt’s faltering start leaves him vulnerable. Ainsworth’s unbeaten run with Gillingham, combined with his track record at Wycombe, makes him an obvious candidate for the job.
His connection with Jacobson could further strengthen the case for a reunion in Berkshire. Whether Reading act swiftly or give Hunt more time may depend on results in the coming weeks, but the prospect of change is becoming harder to ignore.
