Ruben Selles’s managerial career has taken another dramatic turn as he leaves Reading FC to become the new head coach of Hull City, continuing a whirlwind two-year journey through the English football league system. Selles, a 41-year-old Spaniard, has signed a two-and-a-half-year contract with the Championship strugglers, marking his third managerial appointment in England since June 2022. This latest move sees him swap League One, where he guided Reading into play-off contention, for the challenges of the Championship, aiming to revive Hull City’s fortunes.
Selles’s English football odyssey began as an assistant coach at Southampton under Ralph Hasenhuttl in June 2022, after leaving a similar role at FC Copenhagen. He was thrust into the spotlight just five months later when Hasenhuttl was sacked, taking on the caretaker manager role. Following a brief, unsuccessful tenure by Nathan Jones, Selles was again appointed caretaker manager for the remainder of the 2022-23 season. Despite his efforts, Southampton were relegated from the Premier League, and Selles’s contract was not renewed, paving the way for Russell Martin’s arrival.
Undeterred by the relegation, Selles quickly found a new challenge at Reading in June 2023. He took the reins at the League One club, demonstrating his adaptability and determination to build a successful managerial career. His tenure at Reading, though short-lived, saw him steer the team towards a play-off position, showcasing his tactical acumen and ability to motivate players. Now, the allure of the Championship and the opportunity to rebuild Hull City has drawn him away from Reading.
Selles’s move to Hull City presents a new chapter in his rapidly evolving career. He expressed his enthusiasm for the role, citing his familiarity with the club’s history and a shared vision with the technical staff. He views Hull City as a club with potential, aligning with his own ambitions for growth and success. The two-and-a-half-year contract indicates a long-term commitment from both sides, suggesting a belief in Selles’s ability to implement a sustainable and successful footballing philosophy.
Selles’s arrival at Hull City will not see him immediately take the touchline. Andy Dawson will remain as caretaker manager for the upcoming match against Blackburn Rovers. Selles’s first game in charge will be against Watford the following week, marking his official debut as Hull City’s head coach. This staggered handover allows Selles time to assess the squad, familiarize himself with the club’s infrastructure, and implement his tactical strategies before taking the reins.
In a remarkable turn of events, Selles will have managed in the top three tiers of English football within just two years, a testament to his resilience and the opportunities that have presented themselves. His journey, marked by both highs and lows, underscores the volatile nature of football management. Meanwhile, Reading, in response to Selles’s departure, have appointed Under-21s coach Noel Hunt as their new first-team manager, securing his services with a contract until 2027. This appointment reflects Reading’s commitment to internal development and their faith in Hunt’s ability to lead the team forward. The managerial carousel continues, with both Hull City and Reading embarking on new paths under their respective new leaders.
