It's been a whirlwind 12 months since Rob Couhig, Todd Trosclair, and their team took the helm at Reading FC. What started as a protracted ownership saga—delayed by a year of legal wrangling before the May 14, 2025, completion—has now settled into a period of tangible stewardship. They're no longer the "new" owners; they're simply "the" owners. And with a full season in the books, it's time to grade their performance.
Let's be honest: the bar was low. Previous management had set a standard so poor that even a balloon with a smiley face drawn on it would have been an upgrade. But Couhig and Co. have brought more than just a fresh logo. They've brought stability, ambition, and—crucially—a willingness to make hard calls.
The Managerial Gamble That Paid Off
When the ownership group inherited Noel Hunt's side, the team had just missed the playoffs by a whisker, finishing seventh. Expectations were mixed: some fans dreamed of a summer splurge to push for automatic promotion (looking at you, Ross), while others braced for a season of consolidation. The reality was somewhere in between—and far from smooth.
Hunt was dismissed in October 2025 after a rocky start. It was a painful decision, but the right one. Hunt had thrived on a siege mentality, but he was perhaps promoted too early in his coaching journey. The pre-season and recruitment strategy under his watch lacked the cohesion needed for a promotion push. Enter Leam Richardson, a manager with a proven track record of building from the back and grinding out results.
Building a Foundation, Brick by Brick
Richardson's appointment signaled a shift in philosophy. Instead of chasing instant glory, the owners prioritized a solid foundation—something Reading fans haven't seen in years. The January window saw targeted, sensible signings rather than panic buys. The squad, while not yet title-ready, now has a spine: a reliable goalkeeper, a commanding centre-back, and a midfield that can dictate tempo.
Results have been mixed—mid-table security rather than playoff drama—but the trajectory is upward. For the first time in ages, there's a sense of direction. The owners have resisted the temptation to throw money at problems, instead focusing on sustainable growth.
The Verdict: Progress, Not Perfection
So, how do Couhig and Co. rate? In our initial poll back in September, fans gave them a solid 3.46 out of 5. That feels about right. They've made mistakes—communication could be sharper, and the early-season turmoil was avoidable—but they've also made decisive, courageous calls. They've steadied a ship that was taking on water, and they're charting a course for calmer seas.
Above all, owners are judged on their manager. Richardson is a proven operator, and the board has backed him. Now, it's about the summer window and next season's push. The foundation is laid. The question is: can they build a promotion-worthy house on top of it?
We want to hear from you. Cast your vote in our approval rating below and let us know how you think the owners are doing. One year in, the jury is still out—but for the first time in a long time, there's reason for optimism at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.