Rumours – Skippy to return!?

Former Royals defender Bernal, who played for the club from 1994 – 2000 and was part of the side that narrowly missed out on promotion to the Premier League at Wembley in 1995, was a crowd favourite in his time at both Elm Park and the Madejski Stadium. After spending his retired years so far working as a football agent to some big named players including David Beckham, he is now keen to get back into the game as a coach.


The latest rumour is that Sir John Madejski was sounding out Rafa Benitez after Saturdays draw with Liverpool about a Spanish coach, Julen Lopetegui, who is apparantly going to be the clubs next manager. He is highly regarded in Spain and has managed Rayo Vallecano and Real Madrid’s B Team.


Bernal told Australian website, the World Game, ‘Other candidates have been mentioned regarding Reading but we would bring a new ideology, a new football philosophy, and global connections second to none. Julen is a young Spanish manager with a big future and knows the winner’s way.


‘I add the knowledge of English football, I have captained Reading, and will bring the passion and pitbull to the dressing room.’


Whilst adding Bernal to the coaching team sounds good, the thought of a Spanish manager with no real experience is surely a recipe for disaster.