'I truly believed we were on the path': Hunt releases statement following Reading departure

Former Reading striker Hunt - who signed a two-and-a-half-year deal to become the first-team boss back in late 2024, having previously served as interim manager - departs with the Royals just two points above the relegation zone in League One.

Waterford native Noel Hunt has parted ways with Reading. Pic: Inpho

Former Republic of Ireland international Noel Hunt has shared his disappointment following his dismissal as Reading boss earlier this week.

42-year-old Waterford native Hunt was relieved of his duties as Royals boss after the club's 1-1 draw at home to Doncaster Rovers on Saturday last, a result that left them 19th in the League One table.

Former Reading striker Hunt - who signed a two-and-a-half-year deal to become the first-team boss back in late 2024, having previously served as interim manager - departs with the Royals just two points above the relegation zone. 

A statement released by Hunt noted that he "truly believed we were on the path to a successful season". 

In full, the statement posted to Hunt's social media read: 

"I am disappointed to have left the club so early into the League One season, especially with so much still to play for.  When I took over as manager of Reading almost a year ago, the club was facing an incredibly difficult and uncertain period. The ownership situation was unstable, we were operating under a transfer embargo, and we had lost several key members of the squad. At that time, the very survival of the club was in jeopardy.  Despite those challenges, I am immensely proud of the progress we made together — stabilising the club, rebuilding belief, and creating a strong and united team that came within touching distance of the play-offs on the final day of the season.  Over the summer, we had hoped to build on those foundations. Unfortunately, circumstances meant we once again faced the huge task of rebuilding, with 15 players and key members of my backroom staff leaving before pre-season began.  Even so, I was confident in the group we were developing. The squad was growing stronger each week, and with 32 league games still to play, I truly believed we were on the path to a successful season.  While I am naturally disappointed by the club’s decision, I would like to thank everyone connected with Reading Football Club — the staff, my coaching team, and especially the players — for their loyalty, hard work, and professionalism throughout my time there.  To all the wonderful academy staff I want to thank you — you have been the backbone of my growth over the last four years and it’s been an incredible journey with you all.  To the Royals fans: your passion and support have meant everything. Reading will always have a special place in my heart — it’s a club I’ve been proud to represent as a player, coach, and manager, and one I will always hold dear. I genuinely wish the club every success for the future.  I am proud of what we achieved together over the last four years and remain highly ambitious. I’ll now take some time with my family to reflect and recharge before transitioning to the next stage of my management career.