Key Highlights
- Reading Football Club is facing a winding-up order by former chief Nigel Howe.
- The club has been involved in several disputes and financial issues since being purchased from Dai Yongge.
- Nigel Howe, who oversaw the sale of Reading under Dai, now aims to liquidate the club.
- Reading have fallen on hard times recently, including point deductions, transfer embargoes, and relegation.
The Troubled History of Reading FC
Reading Football Club, a League One side, has been battling financial and administrative issues for years. The club’s journey into turmoil began when it was purchased from old owner Dai Yongge by Rob Couhig in May 2024. However, the new ownership hasn’t brought the stability that many fans had hoped for.
Under Dai Yongge’s tenure, Reading faced significant setbacks, including being relegated from the Championship to League One in 2023.
The club also suffered several points deductions, totaling 18 during this period. These financial and performance challenges have left the team struggling to maintain its position in the league.
Dispute with Former Chief Nigel Howe
Nigel Howe, a former chief executive and vice-chairman of Reading under Dai, is now at odds with the club over ownership issues. According to reports, Howe has initiated a winding-up petition against the club. This legal action could potentially lead to the liquidation of Reading FC.
Howe played a crucial role in overseeing the sale process from 2019 until the acquisition by Couhig was finalized. His current move to seek the club’s liquidation is seen as an attempt to resolve past financial disputes and reclaim his stake in the club’s future.
Fans’ Disappointment and Campaigns
The club has faced numerous challenges, leading fans to launch a campaign group called “Sell Before We Dai.” The movement aimed to pressure former owner Dai Yongge into selling the club. Their efforts culminated in memorable protests, such as throwing tennis balls onto the pitch during their September 2023 match against Burton Albion.
Despite these efforts, Couhig was eventually able to purchase Reading in May 2024. However, the club’s current situation remains precarious, with fans and stakeholders closely watching Howe’s legal actions.
The club has stated that it is in an ongoing dispute with Howe and denies any claims made against it.
As Reading prepares for their upcoming match against Luton Town under new manager Leam Richardson, the future of the club hangs by a thread. The winding-up petition not only poses a financial risk but also threatens to destabilize the team’s operations in the near term.
