Reading have appointed José Manuel Gomes as their new manager.
The Portuguese coach, 48, arrives to replace Paul Clement, who was sacked earlier this month.
The Royals are believed to have first turned to Vitoria Guimaraes boss Luis Castro, but he decided to stay in Portugal so the club turned their attention to Rio Ave’s Gomes.
Gomes leaves his homeland with Rio Ave sitting sixth in the Primeira Liga, but have lost three of their last four matches including a 5-2 cup defeat at Sporting Lisbon on Wednesday evening.
He only joined the club in the summer following a second spell at Saudi Arabia’s Al-Taawoun having previously managed fellow Saudi Arabian side Al-Ahli, Baniyas in the UAE, Hungary’s Videoton and Portuguese clubs Paços Ferreira, Aves, Leixoes, Uniao Leiria, Moreirense and Aves.
“I am absolutely delighted that, in José Gomes, we have been able to secure the services of a manager with a very impressive reputation in his native Portugal,” said CEO Nigel Howe.
Owner Dai Yongge added: “We are delighted to have been able to bring José and his staff to the club.
“He comes to Madejski Stadium with a reputation as a forward-thinking coach whose teams are renowned for attacking and effective football. We are looking forward to helping him drive the club forward into a new and successful era and I am sure that all of our supporters will join me in welcoming him to our club.”
Gomes has also spent time as an assistant manager, taking the position of number two at Porto, Malaga and Panathinaikos from 2008-2012 before heading to Videoton.
Gomes will also be hoping for a lengthier spell in charge of a club than he has currently managed, with the 56-game spell at Al-Taawoun his longest stint to date.
Scott Marshall’s final game as caretaker boss today ended with a 1-0 defeat at home against Middlesbrough.
More to follow…
